What is a test blueprint?

• A. A document that outlines test item bias
• B. A plan for defining test content areas and skills
• C. A list of potential test questions
• D. A guideline for test administration

Answer: (B)

A test blueprint serves as a comprehensive outline that defines the content areas and skill levels that will be assessed in a standardized test. It details the structure of the test, including the types of questions, the skills being measured, and the weight or emphasis placed on different sections of the test. This document is crucial for ensuring that the test is aligned with the intended learning outcomes and educational standards.

By establishing clear parameters, the test blueprint helps educators create valid and reliable assessments. It provides a framework for developing test items, ensuring that a variety of competencies are covered. Furthermore, it allows for consistency in testing practices, enabling comparisons of performance across different groups or time periods.

The other options, while relevant in the context of testing, do not encompass the overall purpose of a test blueprint. For instance, item bias is a concern that can be addressed in the testing process, but it does not specifically define the blueprint. Similarly, while potential test questions and guidelines for administration are important components of test preparation, they do not reflect the strategic planning that the blueprint represents.