Testing the writing skills in high school level: The case of Leonik Tomeo High school, Durres

Abstract

The main focus of this article will be the issue of testing writing skills in English language at the high school level. The method we have used to collect the data is the qualitative one. More specifically, the data has been collected by examining English language final tests provided by the teachers. The examination of the tests is related only to exercises designed to test writing (not speaking or grammar) and it will be divided in three main categories as follows: a) criteria used by the teachers to assess writing skills in English b) number of points given to exercises designed for testing writing versus the rest of the test c) types of texts chosen for this purpose. Part of the analysis will be the students’ level of English as well. We will also focus on the types of texts that result problematic for them. Furthermore, teachers will be asked about possible ways they can use to help students improve their writing skills. The findings of this study and the review of literature will provide useful suggestions related to testing writing skills in English.