Focuses on the appropriate use of tests to evaluate a program according to the overall goals, approaches, and specific instructional contents of that particular program. The article emphasizes that often test results are viewed as indicators of the success or failure of a program without considering whether the aims of that program and the…

This article proposes a new approach to teaching English as a Second Language, based on five "uncommonsense" premises, among them encouraging genuine interchange with native speakers and teaching students how to learn and cope in an academic environment. (10 references) (KM)