Which of the following is an example of Holistic Scoring in writing assessment?

• A. Evaluating Overall Writing for Communicative Effectiveness
• B. Counting Spelling Mistakes
• C. Grading Only Grammar
• D. Scoring Based on Punctuation Alone

Answer: (A)

Holistic scoring looks at the piece as a single, integrated performance, judging its overall ability to communicate and achieve its purpose. The best example here is evaluating the entire writing for its communicative effectiveness—whether the writer clearly conveys ideas, organizes them well, and uses an appropriate tone so the reader understands the message.

The other options focus on individual elements rather than the whole. Counting spelling mistakes targets surface accuracy, grading only grammar isolates a single feature, and scoring based on punctuation alone emphasizes a mechanical aspect. In holistic scoring, one overall score reflects how well all parts come together to produce clear communication.