CATEGORY

2

1.5

1

0

Introduction (Organization)

The introduction is inviting, states the main topic and previews the structure of the discussion/blog.

The introduction clearly states the main topic and previews the structure of the discussion/blog, but is not particularly inviting to the reader.

The introduction states the main topic, but does not adequately preview the structure of the discussion/blog nor is it particularly inviting to the reader.

There is no clear introduction of the main topic or structure of the discussion/blog.

Word Choice

Writer uses vivid words and phrases that linger or draw pictures in the reader's mind, and the choice and placement of the words seems accurate, natural and not forced.

Writer uses vivid words and phrases that linger or draw pictures in the reader's mind, but occasionally the words are used inaccurately or seem overdone.

Writer uses words that communicate clearly, but the writing lacks variety, punch or flair.

Writer uses a limited vocabulary that does not communicate strongly or capture the reader's interest. Jargon or cliches may be present and detract from the meaning.

Accuracy of Facts (Content)

All supportive facts are reported accurately.

Almost all supportive facts are reported accurately.

Most supportive facts are reported accurately.

NO facts are reported OR most are inaccurately reported.

Sources (Content)

All sources used for quotes and facts are credible and cited correctly.

All sources used for quotes and facts are credible and most are cited correctly.

Most sources used for quotes and facts are credible and cited correctly.

Many sources used for quotes and facts are less than credible (suspect) and/or are not cited correctly.

Grammar & Spelling (Conventions)

Writer makes no errors in grammar or spelling that distract the reader from the content.

Writer makes 1-2 errors in grammar or spelling that distract the reader from the content.

Writer makes 3-4 errors in grammar or spelling that distract the reader from the content.

Writer makes more than 4 errors in grammar or spelling that distract the reader from the content.

Focus on Topic (Content)

There is one clear, well-focused topic. Main idea stands out and is supported by detailed information.

Main idea is clear but the supporting information is general.

Main idea is somewhat clear but there is a need for more supporting information.

The main idea is not clear. There is a seemingly random collection of information.

Sentence Length (Sentence Fluency)

Every paragraph has sentences that vary in length.

Almost all paragraphs have sentences that vary in length.

Some sentences vary in length.

Sentences rarely vary in length.

Transitions (Organization)

A variety of thoughtful transitions are used. They clearly show how ideas are connected.

Transitions clearly show how ideas are connected, but there is little variety.

Some transitions work well; but connections between other ideas are fuzzy.

The transitions between ideas are unclear or nonexistant.

Conclusion (Organization)

The conclusion is strong and leaves the reader with a feeling that they understand what the writer is "getting at."

The conclusion is recognizable and ties up almost all the loose ends.

The conclusion is recognizable, but does not tie up several loose ends.

There is no clear conclusion, the discussion/blog just ends.