The final test (not the ALPT) we took in Germany was the most realistic I have taken. None of that academic crap. Individually, we were brought before a total stranger (not an instructor). We were given a scenario and had to convey the info. The only thing forbidden was english. We could use sign language or anything else to get the idea across. Mine was that I was making initial contact with the G-chief and had to introduce myself and explain who I was, what I was and how I could help the G's. He asked a series of questions relative to the scenario.
It was a pass or fail test.
I sometimes fear that people get so wrapped up in grammar and such that they forget that the idea is to communicate. Think how you would feel if you had a 1st grade education and some college dude came to you with the King's English and a whole bunch of crap you never heard before.