Includes bibliographical references (p. 288-298) and index.

''Testing language for specific purposes (LSP) refers to that branch of language testing in which the test content and test methods are derived from an analysis of a specific language use situation, such as Spanish for business, Japanese for tour guides, Italian for language teachers, or English for air traffic control. LSP tests are usually contrasted with general purpose language tests, in which purpose is more broadly defined, as in the Test of English as a Foreign Language.

This book is the first to examine the issues surrounding the implementation of tests for specific purposes. It will be a welcome addition to any language teaching professional's library.

It includes: an in-depth discussion of the issues; an examination of the current exams; a comprehensive overview of the literature." (Book Cover)

CONTENTS:

Series editors' preface

Acknowledgements

1. Why test language for specific purposes?

2. Specific purpose language ability

3. Context, discourse domains, and task characteristics

4. Strategic competence: between knowledge and context

5. From target language use to test tasks

6. Specific purpose tests of listening and speaking

7. Specific purpose tests of reading and writing

8. LSP test development and technology

Appendix: other LSP tests

References

Index