Cloze Test Directions

Adapt cloze test directions to fit the type of test you choose for your students. There are several types of cloze tests including multiple choice, C-test and fixed-rate deletion. For multiple-choice testing you might provide a word bank from which students can choose a word to fill in a blank within an existing paragraph. On a C-test, you will ask students to complete every second, truncated word within the body of writing. They will need to complete the word in order to complete the cloze paragraphs. If you are testing using fixed-rate deletion, you delete every nth word, depending on the level of the student. Tell students which type of test they are taking in the cloze test directions so they have a clear understanding of the way in which they must answer the questions on the test.

Determine the purpose or needs of the learners then develop test directions with objectives that help meet those needs. For instance, if the objective is for students to learn vocabulary, you might want to emphasize using words from a vocabulary list or word bank they had studied previously when writing the cloze test. Make this clear in your directions as well. If the objective is timing, it may be necessary to include a time limit in the test directions. Make directions to fit the purpose of the assignment and clearly state them at the top of the cloze test.

Write for your audience. Make sure that the cloze test directions and test both fit the learning or grade level of the students and write directions that include vocabulary that is at grade level or below to ensure students understand what they are reading. Bold and italicize any words that require emphasis to ensure students are aware of important points within the directions. Read directions out loud and ask students if they have questions to ensure understanding before administering the cloze test.