Introduction

What Are Language Functions? ▪︎Language functions refer to the

communicative purposes of language use in different contexts (e.g.,
requesting, apologizing, offering help). ▪︎These are the tools learners need to
communicate effectively in real-world situations.

Why Assess Language Functions? ● To help learners use language

appropriately in real-life situations. ● To ensure learners can convey and
interpret meaning effectively.

Key Language Functions to Assess

Transactional Functions

▪︎Used to exchange information and complete tasks.

● Examples: Asking for directions, ordering food, making a reservation.

Interpersonal Functions

▪︎Used to maintain relationships and social interactions.

● Examples: Greetings, making small talk, giving compliments.

Expressive Functions

▪︎Used to express feelings, emotions, and personal thoughts.

● Examples: Apologizing, expressing gratitude, congratulating.

Framework for Assessing Language Functions

Contextual Appropriateness
▪︎Is the function appropriate for the situation or context?

● Example: A request for a favor in a formal setting requires different

language than in an informal setting.

Accuracy of Grammar and Structure

▪︎Is the grammar and sentence structure correct for the function?

● Example: Polite requests often use modal verbs ("Could you...?", "Would
you mind...?").

Pronunciation and Intonation

▪︎Does the student use appropriate pronunciation and intonation for the
function?

● Example: Requests often have rising intonation; apologies may require a

more sincere tone.

Assessment Methods

Role Plays

▪︎Students act out scenarios using target language functions.

● Example: One student acts as a customer ordering food, while another

plays the waiter.

● Assessment Focus: Appropriate function use, tone, context.

Dialogues

▪︎Provide incomplete dialogues where students fill in the gaps with correct
functions.

● Example: "I’m sorry I’m late. ______________?" (Student fills in: "Could you
forgive me?").

● Assessment Focus: Correct use of language for the given situation.

Real-Life Simulations

▪︎Simulate real-world situations to assess function usage in context.

● Example: Simulate a job interview or a conversation between a teacher

and a student.

● Assessment Focus: Accuracy, appropriateness, fluency.

Practical Tips for Assessing Functions

Clear Context

▪︎Make sure students know the context of the function they are using (e.g.,
formal vs. informal settings).

● This helps them apply the correct language and style.

Scaffold Learning

▪︎Start with simple, clear examples before progressing to more complex real-
world situations.

● Example: Start with greetings, then progress to making requests, offering

advice, etc.

Use Rubrics for Assessment

▪︎Develop a rubric to assess different aspects of language use:

● Clarity of Purpose (Does the function serve its intended purpose?)

● Contextual Accuracy (Is the function appropriate for the situation?)

● Language Proficiency (Is the grammar and vocabulary correct?)

Differentiation in Assessment
Adapt to Different Levels

▪︎Adjust assessment activities to the proficiency level of the students.

● For beginners, focus on simple functions like greetings, while for advanced
students, assess complex functions like persuading or negotiating.

Provide Scaffolding

▪︎For students who struggle, offer support through sentence starters,

vocabulary lists, or pre-teaching key expressions before the assessment.

Using Authentic Materials

Real-Life Examples

▪︎Use authentic materials such as emails, advertisements, or video clips to

assess functions.

● Example: Have students watch a video clip and then identify different
functions being used in the conversation (e.g., making requests, apologizing,
offering solutions).

Authentic Dialogues

▪︎Provide students with real-world dialogues and have them assess the use
of language functions.

● Example: A conversation in a store between a customer and a shop

assistant could be used to assess polite requests, apologies, or clarifications.

Cross-Cultural Sensitivity

▪︎Emphasize the cultural aspects of language functions.

● Example: In some cultures, requesting something directly might be seen

as rude, while in others, it might be normal. Discussing cultural differences
helps students use language functions appropriately in varied settings.
CRITERIA FOR ASSESSMENT:

1. Clarifying Learning Objectives

Define Specific Functions:

Begin by identifying exactly which language functions you want to assess.

For instance, are you focusing on expressions of agreement/disagreement, or
are you also testing the ability to justify and elaborate on opinions? Clarity on
these points helps ensure the assessment is aligned with your instructional
goals.

Skill Integration:

Consider whether the test will only address isolated phrases or whether it will
also incorporate broader communicative skills such as fluency, accuracy, and
coherence in expressing opinions.

2. Test Design Considerations

Variety of Question Types:

Use different question formats to cover the range of skills involved:

Multiple Choice Questions: Test recognition of appropriate language use and

understanding of subtle differences in tone or politeness.

Fill-in-the-Blank Items: Assess the ability to produce language functions in

context.
Short Answer/Essay Questions: Require students to construct responses
where they express opinions or justify their stance.

Role-plays or Oral Tasks: If possible, include oral components that allow

students to practice speaking functions in realistic interactions.

Authenticity and Real-life Contexts:

Design tasks that mimic real-world scenarios. For example, asking students
to debate a current issue or write a letter to the editor encourages authentic
use of language functions.

Balanced Difficulty:

Ensure the test includes a mix of questions that vary in complexity—from

simple recognition and use of language functions to more complex tasks
involving reasoning and justification of opinions.

3. Validity and Reliability

Content Validity:

The test should cover all aspects of the targeted language functions. For
example, if testing for both agreeing and disagreeing, include questions that
require students to provide responses for both scenarios.

Reliability:

Develop clear and objective scoring criteria so that different evaluators can
consistently assess responses. This reduces subjectivity and increases the
reliability of your assessment.

Incorporating Formative and Summative Assessments

Formative Assessments:

Integrate ongoing, low-stakes assessments such as peer reviews, class

discussions, and self-assessments. These help students practice and refine
their language functions before a summative test.

Summative Assessments:

The comprehensive test should serve as a final evaluation of the student’s

proficiency in the targeted language functions. Consider using a combination
of written and oral components for a well-rounded assessment.

Consideration for Diverse Learners:

Ensure that the test is fair and accessible to all students. Include a variety of
tasks that cater to different learning styles and language proficiency levels.

Time Allocation:

Design the test so that it can be completed within a reasonable time .