Which scoring method assigns a single overall score to a writing or speaking sample based on global impression?

Which scoring method assigns a single overall score to a writing or speaking sample based on global impression?

• A. Analytic scoring
• B. Holistic scoring
• C. Criterion-based scoring
• D. Incremental scoring

Answer: (B)

Holistic scoring is the approach that assigns a single overall score based on the global impression of a writing or speaking sample. It evaluates the piece as a whole, considering how well it communicates overall, including aspects like clarity, coherence, fluency, accuracy, and effectiveness, without breaking the performance into separate parts. This makes it a quick, single-judgment measure of quality, which is exactly what the option describes. In contrast, analytic scoring would give separate scores for different features (grammar, vocabulary, organization, pronunciation), and criterion-based scoring uses specific standards to judge each level, often producing multiple scores. Incremental scoring isn’t typically used to produce a single global score.

Holistic scoring is the approach that assigns a single overall score based on the global impression of a writing or speaking sample. It evaluates the piece as a whole, considering how well it communicates overall, including aspects like clarity, coherence, fluency, accuracy, and effectiveness, without breaking the performance into separate parts. This makes it a quick, single-judgment measure of quality, which is exactly what the option describes. In contrast, analytic scoring would give separate scores for different features (grammar, vocabulary, organization, pronunciation), and criterion-based scoring uses specific standards to judge each level, often producing multiple scores. Incremental scoring isn’t typically used to produce a single global score.