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What are the characteristics of an ESP test ABSTRACT The article discusses some characteristics surrounding testing of English for Specific Purposes (ESP), a wide-ranging field which has now been established as an integral part of English Language Testing, and perceived as an independent activity within the ESP process. The first chapter provides a short general overview of the nature of ESP testing field, bringing into focus that ESP testing has been concerned with measuring specific uses of English language among identified groups of test takers. Next, some defining characteristics and principles common to all ESP tests are explored. The factors of authenticity and washback effect in ESP testing are examined in greater detail. Next, the importance of quality assessment is stressed, and ways of achieving it are examined. The chapter on the English Vocational Matura outlines the format of this ESP public examination in Slovenia, examining the tasks of reading and writing in at greater length. 1. Introduction From the early 1960s English for Specific Purposes (ESP) has grown to become one of the most prominent areas of English foreign language teaching. This development is reflected in an increasing number of publications, conferences and journals dedicated to ESP discussions. Similarly, more traditional general English courses gave place to courses aimed at specific areas, for example English for Business Purposes. In addition to the emergence of ESP a strong need for testing of specific groups of learners was created. As a result, ESP testing movement has shown a slow but definite growth over the past few years. In this article it is my intention to discuss some key issues surrounding the field of ESP testing. I will begin the discussion by addressing the nature and characteristics of ESP testing, underline the principles of good testing practice, and offer examples of reading and writing tasks used in the English Vocational

References:   Figure 2: Vocational Matura Reading task (2006) Figure 3: Vocational Matura Reading Task (2006)   [pic] Figure 4: Vocational Matura Writing Task (2006) Alderson, J. C., Clapham, C., and Wall, D. (1995). Language Test Construction and Evaluation. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.   Hughes, A. (1989). Testing for Language Teachers   Munby, J. (1987). Communicative Syllabus Design   Predmetni izpitni katalog za poklicno maturo – angleščina (2005)