Attempts to put the field of writing assessment into a historical, linguistic, and geographical/cultural context, in order to stimulate work in writing assessment from across as broad a set of perspectives as possible. Presents a history of writing assessment, looks at writing assessment in the modern period, and considers the future of writing…

Considers what the best assessment practices are for ESL (English as a Second Language) and international students at two- and four-year institutions in the United States. Presents results of an Internet search of one set of prominent American institutions' placement practices. Argues that second language composition specialists need to examine…

Presents a discursive, reflective, and experimental essay. Considers the wealth of images created by a 75-year-old letter from the author's father to his sister. Reflects on the relationship of writing to identity, history, and personal expression. Suggests that assessment needs to be contextual, descriptive, and personal. (RS)

Offers a framework (personality type theory) with which to understand differing perspectives on assessment. Aims to encourage readers to consider how their own preferences might influence their attitudes toward assessment in general, and toward particular assessment activities in the classroom. (PA)