Essay Glossary

Analytical Scoring:

A method of scoring essay tests by summing the number of points scored on each question.

Halo Effect

The tendency of raters to judge specitic traits of behaviors on the basis of previously obtained overall knowledge about the individual being rated. The halo effect is a source of invalidity because ratings are influenced by a general impression of an individual and not necessarily by knowledge of the specific trait being evaluated. (Copyright Sax)

Holistic Scoring

A method of scoring essay tests by separating students papers into different categories of quality. Papers are then read within each group to ensure intragroup comparability. (Copyright Sax)

Primary Trait Scoring

A method of scoring essay tests by determining what salient traits are to be measured. Points are then assigned to those primary traits. (Copyright Sax)