skip to main content skip to footer

Helping Students Select Appropriately Challenging Text: Application to a Test of Second Language Reading Ability TOEFL iBT ESL ELL

Author(s):
Sheehan, Kathleen M.
Publication Year:
2017
Report Number:
RR-17-33
Source:
ETS Research Report
Document Type:
Report
Page Count:
19
Subject/Key Words:
English as a Second Language (ESL), Reading Ability, Model-Based Measurement, English Language Learners (ELL), Automated Scoring and Natural Language Processing, TOEFL iBT, TextEvaluator, Lexile Measures, Matching Criterion, Text Complexity, Reading Comprehension, Test Selection

Abstract

A model-based approach for matching language learners to texts of appropriate difficulty is described. Results are communicated to test takers via a targeted reading range expressed on the reporting scale of an automated text complexity measurement tool (ATCMT). Test takers can use this feedback to select reading materials that are well matched to their abilities, that is, materials that are expected to be challenging, yet not so challenging as to cause frustration or reduce motivation. An application to the problem of helping students prepare to take the TOEFL iBT test is presented.

Read More