HE Lianzhen (Zhejiang University)

　　Abstract：

　　Most relevant studies examine the validity issues of linking language tests to language standards with three sources of evidence, namely, procedural, internal, and external. However, there is a lack of a comprehensive and coherent theoretical framework to guide linking studies. Based on Bachman & Palmer’s (2010) Assessment Use Argument, this paper proposes Linking Use Argument as a validation framework for linking language tests to language standards, pointing out that validity evidence should be collected to address the consequences of linking, linking-based decisions, linking-based interpretations, and linking records. In addition, this paper lists some questions to be addressed and ways to collect evidence in supporting the claims of beneficence, values sensitivity, equitability, relevance, sufficiency, meaningfulness, generalizability, impartiality and consistency.

　　Key words：

　　language standards; validation; Linking Use Argument; standard setting

　　Source:

　　Modern Foreign Languages, 2019(05)