Assessing Competence in ESL: Reading

Results from research with Eye Movement Photography (EMP) are discussed with a view to defining differences between native speakers and non-native reading processes. The greatest contrast is in terms of the duration of eye fixations; non-native speakers at the college level require about as much time for a fixation as an average native speaker at the third grade level. Various tests of reading skill are discussed and correlations with other tests are given. The hypothesis is advanced that high correlations between tests of listening, speaking, reading, and writing are an indication of test validity. Support for tests which can easily be constructed by classroom teachers is provided.