This presentation paper first gave a definition of Achievement Test as – “Any test needed to assess the achievement (success, attainment or accomplishment) in any subject with regard to a set of predetermined objectives or goals”. It goes ahead to explain the general principles of Achievement Test construction, which are-

• The statement of objective
• Specification of content to be covered
• Preparation of the test – blue print
• Preparation of the test items
• Trial testing
• Item analysis

The paper covered the relevant aspects in the construction of test items by the teachers. Such as the importance of having a clear comprehensive Table of Specification (TOS) which enables the teacher to ensure that the test items covers both the course content and instructional objectives with the two-dimensional chart. The Table of Specification ensures that the test item not only measures the lowest level of cognition knowledge, but also measures the other fine higher levels of intellectual abilities which are comprehension, application, analysis, synthesis and evaluation.

The paper equally touched on how the examiners can select the types of test items they are to use. It expounds on the two main forms of testing items – Essay tests and objective tests and how the examiner can effectively and efficiently construct these items.