Process 

Communication models

Interpretations of the Standards

Using the modes in assessment

NAEP Model

The Center for Applied Linguistics (CAL), with input from ACTFL and the American Insitutes for Research, developed a framework for foreign language assessment based on the National Standards. This work was performed for the National Assessment Governing Board, which administers the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), also called the "Nation's Report Card". A foreign language NAEP is scheduled to be administered for the first time in 2004 to Spanish language learners across the United States.

This diagram demonstrates that the "what" of the assessment will be communication skills. The other C's—Cultures, Connections, Comparisons, and Communities—provide the context for the assessment. They represent the context and content of communication. The NAEP also demonstrates the relationship of the four skills to the Interpersonal, Interpretive, and Presentational modes.

Wisconsin Model

The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction created a model to illustrate the relationships between state standards (based on the National Standards) and performance assessment. As in the NAEP diagram, the three modes of the Communication Standard dominate the center of the model. The authors write:

"In a world language classroom, standards influence the curriculum, assessment, and instruction. The three purposes of Communication (interpersonal, interpretive, and presentational) form the heart. Culture is always embedded in the instruction. Connections, Comparisons, and Communities enrich the learning activities. The performance standards inform the assessments that show students their progress toward higher levels of proficiency in using the target language. The focus is on what students can do with the language they are learning." (Sandrock 2002, p. 67)