Author/Authors :
Izadpanah، Mohammad Ali نويسنده Shiraz University, Iran , , Rakhshandehroo، Fatemeh نويسنده Department of Foreign Languages and Linguistics, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran , , Hoomanfard ، Mohammad Hamed نويسنده Payame Noor University , , Mahmoudikia، Mozhgan نويسنده Department of Foreign Languages and Linguistics, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran ,
Abstract :
In the present study it was attempted to investigate any probable interaction between holistic and analytic scoring systems in rating second language writing. The study also investigated whether any of these rating systems underestimate or overestimate the scores in comparison to each other. In this regard, the study employed two rating systems; TOEFL iBT independent Writing rubrics (holistic rubric) and Jacobs’s et al. composition profile (Analytic Rubric). The written products were scored by three independent raters. The findings indicated that the two rating scales were successful predictors of one another. The results also revealed that the language use component was the best predictor of the scores of the holistic rating scale. The results showed that the analytic rating under-estimated the writing ability of the lower-level participants, but the scores of mid- and high level students were consistent according to two rating scales. The results suggest that the analytical rating scales should not be employed for the low level language learners since their abilities are under-estimated. Moreover, working on learners’ structural accuracy should not be overlooked since the language use criterion was found to be the best predictor.
