A Corpus-Based Word Classification Method for Detecting Difficulty Level of English Proficiency Tests

Many education systems globally adopt an English proficiency test (EPT) as effective mechanism to evaluate a Foreign Language (EFL) speakers’ comprehension levels. Similarly, Taiwan’s military academy also developed the Military Online Proficiency Test (MOEPT) assess EFL cadets’ However, difficulty level of MOEPT has not been detected help facilitate future updates its banks and improve pedagogy learning. Moreover, it is almost impossible carry out any investigation effectively using previous corpus-based approaches. Hence, based on lexical threshold theory, this research adopts approach detect MOEPT. The function word list Taiwan College Entrance Examination Center (TCEEC) (which includes Common European Framework Reference for (CEFR) A2 B1 lists) are adopted classification criteria classify items. results show that mainly General Purposes (EGP) type CEFR (lexical coverage = 74.46%). findings presented in paper offer implications management or faculty regulate contents future, develop suitable curriculums learning materials, conduct remedial teaching cadets who cannot pass By doing so, expected overall improve.