Abstract
In the modern educational process and the field of knowledge assessment, tests are widely used as the main tool for measuring learning outcomes. Language testing is also recognized as a method of independent assessment and, like other types of tests, is actively used in many countries around the world. This article discusses the history of the origin of tests, stages of testing development, types and specificity of tests. Particular attention is paid to the speaking subtest. The work provides a brief overview of the forms and process of organizing the speaking subtest as a means of measuring oral speech skills. In addition, the rules for compiling and conducting the speaking subtest and the applied capabilities of language testing are determined. Along with the language tests of the USA and Russia, the KAZTEST testing system is described, which is characterized as an objective control tool that determines the degree of communicative competence and qualifications in the Kazakh language. Moreover, the scientific, theoretical and applied aspects of language testing are studied, using description methods, an analysis of a number of world testing systems is carried out. Keywords: test, testology, language testing, speaking, speech, language skills.