Abstract: This paper discusses two common formats used in speaking assessment: the interview format and the paired format. Speaking is a crucial skill in language learning, and its evaluation requires reliable and valid testing methods. The interview format is practical and easy to administer, but it may not fully represent real communication. The paired format allows more natural interaction between candidates, although it is more difficult to score and manage. The paper also examines the challenges of scoring speaking tests, including issues of reliability, validity, and examiner judgment. It concludes that combining different test formats and using clear scoring criteria can improve the accuracy of speaking assessment.
Keywords: Speaking assessment; Interview format; Paired format; Oral proficiency interview (OPI); Communicative competence; Language testing; Reliability; Validity; Rating scales; Speaking performance evaluation.
Title: Deep Insight into Interview Format vs. Paired Format in Speaking Tests
Author: Naser Alsubaiei
International Journal of Social Science and Humanities Research
ISSN 2348-3156 (Print), ISSN 2348-3164 (online)
Vol. 14, Issue 1, January 2026 - March 2026
Page No: 337-341
Research Publish Journals
Website: www.researchpublish.com
Published Date: 23-March-2026
