Principles of Assessing Answers to Written Examinations in Arabic Teaching as a Second Language: A Descriptive Analytical Study

Abstract

Abstract: In an effort to enrich educational programs in teaching second languages, this research discusses the most important fundamentals of assessing answers to written tests for learners of Arabic language as a second language, and addresses the ideal tools that would facilitate the assessment process. The researcher has adopted A descriptive – analytical approach based on the topics nature so as to clarify the specifications of a good test and its assessment procedures. However, the study explored the relevance of good test qualities to the globally language competency levels in line with a fixed language framework such as Common European Council framework of reference for languages, and also the American Council Guidelines on Teaching of Foreign Languages. Finally, this research found out the necessity of making specifications available for language or written performance in order to guarantee the writing Assessment according to the international criteria and appropriate standards.

Keywords: Effective language assessment, writing skills, language competency levels, writing assessment criteria, rating scales.