Writing

Test Overview

In the CELBAN Writing Test, examinees will write to summarize and communicate ideas. The writing prompts deal with health related topics that are familiar to nurses. The first task involves using the information in an incident report (provided in a chart format) as the basis for a narrative description. The second task presents an opinion about an issue that affects health care and invites a response.  In their responses, examinees are asked to be clear about their position and provide support for their argument. Written responses will be evaluated based on standardized criteria from the Canadian Language Benchmarks.

Test Format

The Writing Test is 40 minutes and is part of the CELBAN Computer Based Test (CBT). There are two tasks in the Writing Test and examinees can divide their time between the tasks however they like. Instructions will be provided, along with space to type responses. Follow the instructions carefully since the tasks require different writing formats. The first task is a narrative description and the second is an opinion piece, however, both tasks require the use of complete sentences in paragraph form.

Test Taking Strategies

• Follow the instructions carefully regarding the requested format of answers.
• Take a moment to plan the organization of the written text before beginning.
• Plan to leave a few minutes to proofread responses at the end.

In Summary