Somehow
it is quite interesting how students react while having either an oral exam or
any other activity involving their speaking skills. However, it is relevant to take into consideration
the different types of speaking in order to assess more accordingly our
students. After having read the chapter “Assessing Speaking” from the book
“Language Assessment, Principles and Classroom Practices” by Douglas, I
realized that teachers must be also aware of the assessment principles and know
at what extent they are applicable to the different types of speaking
practices. Talking about the principles of assessment, I do consider that
students must be always given feedback after any oral activity held in class.
Besides, I think that giving feedback offers students the chance of improving
their skills by avoiding making the same mistake once again.
Finally, based on my short
experience as an English teacher, I would say that teachers must try to develop
tasks basically focused on topics that students can easily talk about; in that
way, students will feel more comfortable and confident to talk and actively
participate.
As you said, getting feedback after an oral presentation or a speaking test is of huge importance for students (though giving feedback won't guarantee that the students will avoid all their mistakes at once. They need to follow a process in order to finally avoid those mistakes unconciously).
ResponderBorrarLooking for interesting and easy topics for the students is a good strategy and it enhances their motivation and willingness to say something.
I completely agree with you when you mention the importance of giving studebnts feedback, due to the fact that providing them it, they feel the professor is aware for their progress. Also, before beginning any speaking test or assesssment, I consider it is useful to talk to them a little bit about how they feel, their interests in order to make them feel comfortable and breaking the ice.
ResponderBorrar