Study examined the impact of method on speech ratings of classroom teachers by concurrently testing reliability and validity for the analytic and holistic methods, holding the variables of raters and speeches constant. Student speeches were videotaped and scored. Both methods produced similar and acceptable levels of reliability and concurrent…

Study examined effects of training on positive grader bias toward nicely handwritten essays. Nine typed essays, nine in neat handwriting, and nine in poor handwriting were transcribed into the other modes. Graders trained to avoid bias and three controls graded the essays. Both groups showed significant bias toward good handwriting. (SM)

Sample guides for both holistic and analytic scoring of elementary school students' writing samples were written by the California State Department of Education. This article describes how the guides were developed and validated and explains complementary uses for the two types of scoring. (PP)