What term describes the extent to which a test samples the behavior that is of interest?

• A. Agglutinative Language
• B. Content Validity
• C. Construct Validity
• D. Consequential Validity

Answer: (B)

The main idea being tested is how well a test samples the behavior and content it’s supposed to measure. Content validity focuses on this sampling, ensuring the test items genuinely represent the domain of knowledge or skills the test aims to assess. In practice, this means the test should cover the topics, tasks, and behaviors specified by the course or blueprint, and do so in a way that reflects how those skills are used in real work or performance. For example, a vocabulary or reading comprehension exam should include items that mirror the types of language and tasks students were taught, not stray or irrelevant material. Experts often review items and map them to a syllabus or objective list to confirm this alignment, sometimes using a blueprint to ensure comprehensive coverage of the intended content.

Other concepts describe different aspects of measurement. An agglutinative language is a linguistic term about how some languages form words, not about testing. Construct validity asks whether the test truly measures the theoretical construct it’s intended to, rather than related traits. Consequential validity looks at the outcomes and consequences of test use, such as fairness and impact on learners.