Qisqacha mazmuni. Language assessment is no longer confined to printed text as modern tests increasingly require learners to interpret maps, diagrams, and digital visuals alongside language. This shift raises a critical question: when test-takers engage with multimodal tasks, are assessments measuring language proficiency or additional skills such as visual literacy? This article explores the potential of multimodal discourse analysis (MDA) as a framework for examining how linguistic and visual modes interact in contemporary language tests. Drawing on examples from international assessments including IELTS, TOEFL iBT, and PISA, the paper argues that visual elements actively shape meaning-making rather than merely supporting text. The study highlights implications for validity and fairness and proposes principles for integrating multimodal design in ways that maintain a clear focus on language ability.

Kalit so'zlar. Multimodal discourse analysis, language assessment, multimodal literacy, test validity, digital assessment, visual–text integration.