The use of language in assessment items

Abstract

This literature review focuses on the accessibility of language in assessment items. It highlights the key linguistic features that item writers should consider, including word difficulty, the use of command words, sentence complexity, and cohesion. The paper is one of a series of research reports contributing to AQA’s work on identifying and documenting new principles on question writing. The research evidence is intended to guide the design, production and implementation of future AQA assessments.

Keywords

• Accessibility
• Assessment Design
• Attainment
• Fairness
• Validity