Which term describes the negative impact of testing on teaching, such as encouraging students to focus on practice tests?

Which term describes the negative impact of testing on teaching, such as encouraging students to focus on practice tests?

• A. Washback/Backwash
• B. Connotation
• C. Phonology
• D. Practicality

Answer: (A)

Washback, or backwash, is the effect that a test has on teaching and learning. When the impact is negative, teachers tailor instruction to match the test format and item types, students spend a lot of time practicing test questions, and the curriculum narrows to what’s tested rather than developing broader language skills or deeper understanding. This can lead to memorization and test-taking strategies taking precedence over genuine learning, and instruction may omit topics not covered by the exam. The other terms don’t describe this phenomenon: connotation is about implied meaning of words, phonology is the sound system of a language, and practicality refers to feasibility, not the influence of assessment on instruction.

Washback, or backwash, is the effect that a test has on teaching and learning. When the impact is negative, teachers tailor instruction to match the test format and item types, students spend a lot of time practicing test questions, and the curriculum narrows to what’s tested rather than developing broader language skills or deeper understanding. This can lead to memorization and test-taking strategies taking precedence over genuine learning, and instruction may omit topics not covered by the exam. The other terms don’t describe this phenomenon: connotation is about implied meaning of words, phonology is the sound system of a language, and practicality refers to feasibility, not the influence of assessment on instruction.