Aligning Certit’s written proficiency tests with CEFR standards

This article reports on a partial but significant step in the alignment of Certit (the certification of Italian as a second language developed at Roma Tre University) with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). Focusing on the written proficiency test, the study describes an institutional process aimed at enhancing the test’s construct validity and transparency through reference to the CEFR’s action-oriented approach. Following the procedures outlined in the CEFR Alignment Handbook (British Council et al. 2022), a familiarization phase was conducted between March and November 2022 with the team of test designers to consolidate their shared understanding of the CEFR construct of task. This was followed by a systematic review of writing prompts, whose alignment with CEFR principles was analyzed and discussed collaboratively. The outcomes of this process include the refinement of prompt design and the identification of key task features. While representing a limited stage in a broader alignment effort, the process has fostered professional awareness, improved test documentation, and established the foundations for ongoing, evidence-based validation of Certit’s writing component.