Analytic, Holistic, and Primary Trait Marking Scales

Abstract

Major types of marking scales are holistic scales, where a single overall score is given, analytic scales, where separate scores are given for different aspects of performance, and primary‐trait scales, where scores are based on specific features that distinguish between better and worse performance on a given task. Each type has strengths and weaknesses, which must be made to fit with the assessment situation. For example, holistic scales can be relatively fast to use, given that only a single scoring decision must be made, while analytic scales can be easier to use with examinees who have uneven development of language abilities. The entry also discusses approaches for rubric development and provides a series of questions that should be asked when using rubrics to evaluate language performance. Finally, besides scoring, marking scales have a variety of other pedagogical uses, such as communicating and negotiating grading standards with students.