Study Guide

Field 116: Speech/Drama/Debate
Test Design and Framework

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The test design below describes general assessment information. The framework that follows is a detailed outline that explains the knowledge and skills that this test measures.

Test Design

Test overview, including duration of test, number of questions, and passing score.
Format Computer-based test ( C B T )
Number of Questions 80 selected-response questions and 1 constructed-response assignment
Time* 4 hours
Passing Score 240

*Does not include 15-minute  C B T  tutorial

Test Framework

pie chart of subarea weighting, as described in the table below
Test weighting by number of questions per subarea.
Subareas Range of Competencies Approximate Percentage 
of Test
Selected-Response
 roman numeral 1  Public Speaking and Debate 0001–0006 43 percent 
 roman numeral 2  Drama 0007–0012 42 percent 
Total weighting of Selected-Response Questions 85 percent 
Constructed-Response
 roman numeral 3  Pedagogical Content Knowledge 0013 15 percent 

Subarea roman numeral 1–Public Speaking and Debate

Competency 0001–Apply knowledge of the functions, characteristics, and components of the human communication process.

The following topics are examples of content that may be covered under this competency.

Competency 0002–Apply knowledge of planning, preparing, and organizing public speeches.

The following topics are examples of content that may be covered under this competency.

Competency 0003–Apply knowledge of effective speech presentation and delivery.

The following topics are examples of content that may be covered under this competency.

Competency 0004–Apply knowledge of principles and practices of argumentation and debate.

The following topics are examples of content that may be covered under this competency.

Competency 0005–Analyze issues, functions, and influences related to mass communication and mass media and evaluate and interpret written, oral, visual, and digital media messages.

The following topics are examples of content that may be covered under this competency.

Competency 0006–Apply knowledge of content-specific instruction and assessment in speech communication and debate education.

The following topics are examples of content that may be covered under this competency.

Subarea roman numeral 2–Drama

Competency 0007–Analyze dramatic literature, performance, and production from various cultures and historical periods.

The following topics are examples of content that may be covered under this competency.

Competency 0008–Apply knowledge of dramatic structures, script development and analysis, and literary interpretive performance.

The following topics are examples of content that may be covered under this competency.

Competency 0009–Apply knowledge of essential acting skills and methods.

The following topics are examples of content that may be covered under this competency.

Competency 0010–Apply knowledge of principles and practices for organizing rehearsals and planning and directing theatrical performances.

The following topics are examples of content that may be covered under this competency.

Competency 0011–Apply knowledge of theatrical design, management, and production.

The following topics are examples of content that may be covered under this competency.

Competency 0012–Apply knowledge of content-specific instruction and assessment in a dramatic arts program.

The following topics are examples of content that may be covered under this competency.

Subarea roman numeral 3–Pedagogical Content Knowledge

Competency 0013–Analyze instructional objectives and activity plans, students' assignments and work, and assessment strategies and information in speech, drama, and debate education; and describe how to use these analyses to identify students' strengths and needs and inform instruction.

The following topics are examples of content that may be covered under this competency.