From CEFR Descriptors to Task Design: Making Construct-Driven Decisions         

When working with the CEFR, it can be challenging to translate broad descriptors into actual test tasks, especially in productive skills. This session provides a systematic way to move from CEFR descriptors to practical design choices. The core focus is on how to interpret CEFR descriptors (including the Companion Volume) for receptive and productive skills and convert them into test tasks that operationalise a specific level consistently.

What knowledge and/or skills will I gain from this workshop?

By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:

·       Understand key CEFR construct dimensions relevant to task design
·       Interpret CEFR descriptors in a principled and consistent way
·       Translate CEFR descriptors into well‑aligned test tasks
·       Analyse cognitive and linguistic demands of tasks
·       Identify and resolve misalignment of tasks and levels
·       Develop a personal CEFR task design checklist for use in their own context

Who is this workshop suitable for?

This workshop is suitable for those involved in task design, either as designers themselves, or those who have roles reviewing and editing tasks, or training task designers. Participants are expected to have a working knowledge of the CEFR and to be able to work with CEFR descriptors provided in English and with sample tasks designed for learners of English as a foreign language. Exemplar tasks targeting the B1-C1 range will be provided.

How is this workship delivered?

This practical workshop is delivered in person, and will include interactive discussions with the tutor, bite-size introductory input, individual study tasks, and group and pair discussions. A pre-course questionnaire will be used to gauge the level and experience of those attending. Coffee breaks and lunch are included.

Does this require require any specific software?

This course does not require any specific software, but it is a paper-free ‘green’ workshop, and all material will be delivered/shared online. You will need your own laptop.

Who is the tutor?

The course will be presented by Jane Lloyd (Cambridge University Press and Assessment). Jane is a Senior Research Manager at Cambridge English. Her main responsibilities are researching integrated learning and assessment practices in the classroom, working on large-scale educational reform projects with ministries and NGOs, and working for ALTE. Her work for ALTE is to support other national language test providers. This includes advising and training in standard setting, statistical analysis of items, analysis of rater performance, delivering pre-conference and online courses and training in assessment, and supporting exam boards with bespoke training and mentoring.  She has a degree in Linguistics, a DELTA, MAs in Linguistics and TESOL, and in Language Testing, and is completing her PhD in Language Testing from CRELLA. 

When is the next course?

This one-day workshop will be on Wednesday 11^th November in Lisbon, Portugal.

How can I register?

Register for the next workshop here.

Expression of Interest

If you would like to express your interest in this course, or any other ALTE course, please click here.

Can several people from the same organisation join this course?

For group bookings, ALTE advises to book a maximum of three places per organisation.

How can I pay?

Full payment is required on registration. We strongly recommend that payment is made online using a Visa, MasterCard or American Express. However, if it is not possible to pay with a credit/debit card when registering, please contact the ALTE Services Unit (servicesunit@alte.org) to request an invoice with bank transfer payment instructions.

Course Terms and Conditions

1. Attendance

• Participants must attend at least 80% of course to receive a Certificate of Completion.
• Attendance will be recorded for each session.
• Those who do not meet the attendance requirement will not be eligible for the certificate.
• Missed sessions may be made up in a later edition of the course, subject to availability and the organiser’s approval.

• Each course registration is valid for one individual participant only.

• Registrations may not be shared, transferred, or used by multiple participants, unless agreed with ALTE.

• Group viewing (for example, several people attending from the same organisation in a meeting room or via a shared connection) is not permitted unless explicitly agreed in writing with ALTE.

2. Recordings and Course Materials

• Recording, copying or sharing any part of the live sessions is not permitted.
• All course materials, including slides, recordings and handouts, are the property of the course organiser and are provided for personal educational use only.
• Materials may not be shared, reproduced or distributed without permission.

3. Technology and Course Changes

• Participants are responsible for ensuring they have a reliable internet connection and appropriate technology to join the sessions.
• The course organiser may make reasonable changes to the schedule, content or tutors if necessary, and will communicate any updates in advance.

4. Agreement

By enrolling on and participating in this course, you confirm that you have read and agree to these Terms and Conditions.