Short-Answer Test Item Writing Procedure cont'd

DOE-HDBK-1204-97

to add more information than required for a correct response. Below are two examples

which illustrate this point.

First Example:

The term `undermoderated' is used to describe one of the major characteristics

of a typical reactor core. The effect that an increase in power would have on

the ratio and to

Keff.

the moderator-to-fuel ratio, is to

The beginning sentence of the above test item adds nothing but extra reading time.

Second Example:

Two isotopes, one with a half-life of 10 days and another with a half-life of 5

days, sit on opposite trays of a set of scales. Assuming the isotopes have

identical atomic weights, and there is one Curie of each isotope, which way will

the scales tilt (which weighs more)?

The situation in the above test item bears little relationship to a situation that an operator

would encounter on the job.

Make sure that the answer key response matches (and is limited to) the requirements posed

in the test item. The test item below only asks for a yes or no response, yet the answer key

indicates that an explanation of that one-word response is required.

Test item:

Can a certified operator who has not been at the facility for a period of six

months immediately resume duties in a licensed position?