Optimizing Testing Conditions
One of the logistical challenges in providing AP world language students with the practice they need involves the setup and recording of the speaking tasks. The exact type of task depends on the language. Teachers are encouraged to see the French, German, Spanish, and Italian Language and Culture Course Descriptions, where complete details pertaining to the speaking section of each particular exam may be found.
Using a digital laboratory.
Record the students’ voices in digitized MP3 format. This is the ideal recording situation for many reasons. The digital files, recorded on CDs, reduce the technical problems of broken cassettes, wrong speed settings, and blank recordings. Furthermore, with less manipulation of the equipment by the students, there is less chance of a technical difficulty. Each student’s sound files must be recorded on his or her own separate log. Digital recordings are also less expensive and produce a higher quality recording.
