DESIGNING TASKS TO ASSESS SPEAKING: BALANCING INTERACTION AND ACCURACY

Abstract

The article "Designing Speaking Tasks: Balancing Interaction and Accuracy" explores essential principles for developing effective speaking tasks in language education. It discusses the need for authenticity, appropriate cognitive demand, and clear objectives when designing tasks that promote both fluency and linguistic accuracy. The article provides examples of effective task types, such as debates, role-plays, and information gap activities, which foster interactive language use while encouraging learners to focus on accuracy. Pedagogical implications highlight the importance of task selection, scaffolding, feedback, and technology integration, emphasizing strategies for teachers to enhance learners' speaking proficiency through well-balanced tasks.