The Development of IELTS: A study of the effect of background knowledge on reading comprehension

This book investigates the ESP claim that tertiary level ESL students
should be given reading proficiency tests in their own academic subject
areas, and studies the effect of background knowledge on reading
comprehension. It is set against a background of recent research into
reading in a first and second language, and emphasises the impact schema
theory has had on this. The book is a useful resource for those
involved with IELTS and others interested in the testing of English for academic purposes.
"Caroline Clapham has written a major, seminal book. She has
examined a dangerous field of landmines, detected them, and disarmed
them. This book will serve as a map of that minefield for years to come.
Higher-education language departments … who are seriously considering
special-fields testing should read this book carefully.”
Fred Davidson (1998) Language Testing 15 (2), 289–301.