Styles of Multiple-Choice Test Items cont'd

DOE-HDBK-1204-97

Model C:

(a)

Correct answer with correct condition (e.g., because, since, when, if, etc.)

(b)

Correct answer with incorrect condition

(c)

Incorrect answer with incorrect condition

(d)

Incorrect answer with incorrect condition.

Model C depicts an acceptable multiple-choice design that uses conditions with answers (a

condition in a setting, event, cause/effect that may make the answer correct or incorrect).

Notice that Model C shows only one correct answer with its correct condition.

Model D:

(a)

Correct answer

(b)

Incorrect answer

(c)

Correct answer with incorrect condition

(d)

Incorrect answer with incorrect condition.

Model D illustrates an acceptable model when it may not be possible to create all options in

uniform length. This model shows paired lengths -- two long and two short options -- which

avoids setting any single option apart (either too long or too short) from the remaining

options.

The four models presented are basic. Other models may be developed and used in

combination with one another.