Scoring Guide
Essays at this score point demonstrate superior command over writing an argument on a given
substantive topic using valid reasoning and relevant and sufficient evidence.
• The response demonstrates expert development of a central position or claim(s). A context of the topic is provided
for the discussion, including balanced discussion of the strengths and limitations of alternate claims and/or
counterclaims. The writer’s own position on the issue or claim(s) is clear, considered and nuanced. Several ideas
with effective and thorough explanation are provided; relevant and fully elaborated reasons, examples and/or
details support ideas, including compelling evidence drawn from provided texts and effectively integrated.
• The response has an effective introduction and conclusion. Clear and appropriate paragraphing is used,
creating a coherent whole. Effective transitions and logical sequencing of ideas are used throughout to link
major sections of text, create cohesion and clarify the relationships between claims(s) and reasons, between
reasons and evidence, and between claim(s) and counterclaims.
• The response demonstrates proficient skill in language. Word choice is precise, varied and engaging. The
response effectively varies sentence length and complexity. A formal style is established and an objective tone
that enhances the effectiveness of the response maintained; counterclaims are discussed fairly, without bias.
• Expert command of the conventions of standard English grammar and usage is demonstrated, and the
response demonstrates sophisticated use of grammar, usage and mechanics. Few or no errors in capitalization,
punctuation and spelling appear.
Copyright © 2022 PSI Services LLC. All rights reserved. PSI, the PSI logo, and HISET are registered trademarks of PSI Services LLC. All other trademarks are property of their respective owners. 36058
Score = 6
From flappers in the 1920s to the hippie movement of the 1960s, every decade has featured a debate about what
is and is not appropriate attire. Although we are in a new millennium, the concern over others’ perceptions based on
clothing has not changed. Thus is the issue over casual clothing in the workplace.
As fashion trends have changed, so have workplace dress codes. The “gray flannel suit” has a long history, with its
origins in formal dress appropriate to wear in a king’s court. Since those days, the business suit has undergone many
changes for many reasons. For example, during World War II, wool was rationed, and men’s suits became more simple.
Lapels were smaller and pants were no longer cuffed, which saved fabric. Overall, suits were considered a sort of
uniform for both male and female businesspeople.
Decades later another shift took place: “start-up enterprises began in dorm rooms, garages, and basements”
(Dressing for Creativity article). Anything “traditional” was out, and the business world embraced informality out of
the belief that it encouraged creativity and company morale. Professionalism remains even though CEOs and VPs
wear jeans and T-shirts instead of suits and ties. This laid-back attire has removed the gilded-ness which existed in the
corporate world where the “dog and pony show” indicated a company was successful. Casual attire in the workplace
establishes focus ON business rather than “the look of the company.” I know a lot of technology workers who have
never worn a suit, and I consider all of them to be very professional.
Opponents of casual attire claim productivity suffers, attitudes become lax and customer trust decreases.
However, none of these inherently improve by requiring employees to wear professional attire. Productivity can suffer
if executives make poor decisions which adversely affect output. Attitudes can become lax if employees are dissatisfied
at work for reasons other than being unable to wear casual clothing. Customers can distrust a company due to poor
manufacturing instead of speaking to someone in a suit and tie.
While professional attire and standard uniforms still have their place in the world of work, the shift to casual attire
in the office is simply that – a shift attributed to a change in perspective which naturally occurs in society.