Assessing Argument Literacy : Developing a Civic Argument Literacy Test

Argument literacy – the ability to analyse and evaluate arguments in context – is essential in adult life. Yet, many struggle to distinguish opinions from reasoned claims, weak arguments from strong, and to understand how reasons support a claim. To address this, the Civic Argument Literacy Test (CALT) has been developed. It assesses nine argument literacy sub-skills using real-world-type examples. CALT supports both diagnostic use and pre/post-testing in education. CALT has been piloted and revised twice 2023–25. The challenges of designing the test are discussed, including content, construct, and criterion validity. The end-purpose is to offer a research-based model for strengthening argument literacy.