Grading Holistic Grading Holistic grading involves looking at the paper as an entire document instead of distinguishing content from form. Criteria state what qualities constitute an A, B, C, etc. Like the evaluation criteria, the best time to establish this criteria is prior to grading. Even if you are working from a departmental standard, it is helpful to articulate for yourself what constitutes each letter grade. Writing out your understanding of the criteria insures consistency and provides a useful point of discussion in student conferences.
Some people make a list of the qualities that comprise crucial grading criteria.
This list is useful, but some people are tempted to separate these qualities instead of treating them as collectively necessary for a successful paper. They prefer to write out a description of the paper in a brief paragraph. It addresses the assignment in a way that indicates your comprehension of and control over the assignment itself as well as an understanding of the underlying issues. The message is communicated clearly , concisely , and directly . There is a confidence in this writing.