Which term describes the negative impact of testing on teaching, such as encouraging students to focus on practice tests?

• A. Washback/Backwash
• B. Connotation
• C. Phonology
• D. Practicality

Answer: (A)

Washback, or backwash, is the effect that a test has on teaching and learning. When the impact is negative, teachers tailor instruction to match the test format and item types, students spend a lot of time practicing test questions, and the curriculum narrows to what’s tested rather than developing broader language skills or deeper understanding. This can lead to memorization and test-taking strategies taking precedence over genuine learning, and instruction may omit topics not covered by the exam. The other terms don’t describe this phenomenon: connotation is about implied meaning of words, phonology is the sound system of a language, and practicality refers to feasibility, not the influence of assessment on instruction.