The Montgomery Assessment of Vocabulary Acquisition (MAV) is a comprehensive tool designed to evaluate an individual’s vocabulary knowledge and skills. Developed by renowned language acquisition researcher Douglas Montgomery, the MAV provides valuable insights into vocabulary acquisition, enabling educators and researchers to identify areas of strength and weakness in language learners.
This assessment encompasses a wide range of vocabulary aspects, including receptive and productive vocabulary, as well as word knowledge and usage. It is widely used in educational and research settings to assess vocabulary development in both native and non-native speakers of English.
Montgomery Assessment of Vocabulary Acquisition (MAV)
The Montgomery Assessment of Vocabulary Acquisition (MAV) is a standardized test designed to measure the vocabulary knowledge of students in grades 3-12. The MAV is based on the premise that vocabulary is a critical component of reading comprehension and academic success.
Theoretical Underpinnings of the MAV
The MAV is based on the following theoretical underpinnings:
- Vocabulary is a hierarchical construct, with words organized into semantic categories and subcategories.
- Vocabulary acquisition is a developmental process that occurs over time.
- Vocabulary knowledge is essential for reading comprehension and academic success.
Components of the MAV
The MAV consists of three sections:
- Word Knowledge: This section measures the student’s knowledge of the meaning of words.
- Word Usage: This section measures the student’s ability to use words correctly in context.
- Word Relationships: This section measures the student’s understanding of the relationships between words.
Administration and Scoring of the MAV, Montgomery assessment of vocabulary acquisition
The MAV is administered individually or in small groups. The test takes approximately 30 minutes to complete.
The MAV is scored by a trained examiner. The examiner records the student’s responses on a scoring form. The student’s score is then compared to the normative data to determine the student’s vocabulary level.
Applications of the MAV
The MAV can be used for a variety of purposes, including:
- Identifying students with vocabulary difficulties
- Planning and monitoring vocabulary instruction
- Evaluating the effectiveness of vocabulary instruction
Advantages and Limitations of the MAV
The MAV has a number of advantages, including:
- It is a standardized test, which means that it is administered and scored in the same way for all students.
- It is a reliable test, which means that it produces consistent results.
- It is a valid test, which means that it measures what it is supposed to measure.
The MAV also has a number of limitations, including:
- It is a timed test, which can be stressful for some students.
- It is a paper-and-pencil test, which may not be appropriate for all students.
- It is a norm-referenced test, which means that it compares students to each other rather than to a set of absolute standards.
Commonly Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the MAV?
The MAV is designed to assess an individual’s vocabulary knowledge and skills, including receptive and productive vocabulary, word knowledge, and usage.
How is the MAV administered?
The MAV is typically administered individually in a quiet and comfortable setting. It can be administered by a trained examiner or by the individual themselves.
How is the MAV scored?
The MAV is scored based on the number of correct responses. Raw scores can be converted to scaled scores or percentiles for easy interpretation.
What are the advantages of using the MAV?
The MAV is a reliable and valid assessment tool that provides a comprehensive evaluation of vocabulary knowledge and skills. It is easy to administer and score, and the results can be used to identify areas of strength and weakness in language learners.
What are the limitations of using the MAV?
The MAV is not designed to assess all aspects of vocabulary knowledge and skills. It does not, for example, assess vocabulary in context or the ability to use vocabulary in different communicative situations.
