Multiple Choice Tests

Even though I have taken countless multiple choice tests and created several, I had never examined the ways that the questions are put together. After doing research on the do’s and don’ts of multiple choice tests I feel confident that I will be better at writing this type of assessment than I was before.

There are two parts contained in each multiple choice question the stem and the options.
The stem is the question being asked and the options provide choices containing the correct answer. When writing questions it is important to make sure that grammar and spelling are correct in all areas of the test. Grammar between the stem and the options should also be checked (it is helpful to read the question out loud)

Stems should be short and to the point, and be based on the material that was taught.
Options should contain one correct answer, no more than the necessary amount of options, and all options should be of similar length.

Test writers should be careful when using all of the above and none of the above as they often give the answer away and they sometimes confuse students.

Humor should not be used for serious subject matter and should be used sparingly at all times. It is nice to make students laugh and can lighten the mood of the test but it is important to use humor strategically.

By following the above guidelines a teacher should be able to create an assessment tool that tests the knowledge that was previously taught. Assessments should be used to assess learning not to trick students and create stress. As a health teacher I will use tests to assess learning and improve my teaching, as well as to help students see areas of confusion.

Reference:

http://www.utexas.edu/academic/diia/assessment/iar/students/plan/method/exams-mchoice-write.php