What should be avoided when assessing English language learners' oral skills?

When assessing English language learners' oral skills, applying high-stakes testing formats should be avoided because these formats can create significant pressure and anxiety for students, which may hinder their ability to demonstrate their true English speaking abilities. High-stakes assessments often focus on a narrow set of skills and may not accurately reflect a student's conversational competence or overall language proficiency. They typically place students in a pass/fail situation, leading to increased stress that can negatively impact performance, especially for learners who are still developing their language skills.

In contrast, methods like using open-ended questions or encouraging group discussions foster a more supportive environment. These approaches allow learners to express themselves more freely and engage in meaningful conversations that can showcase their language abilities without the stress associated with high-stakes evaluations. Providing time for students to think before responding is also beneficial as it allows them to formulate their thoughts and articulate their responses more clearly, further aiding in a fair assessment of their oral skills.