CATEGORY

10

8

7

6

Introduction (Organization)

The introduction is inviting, states the main idea of the paper and previews what will be in the essay.

The introduction clearly states the main topic and, but is not particularly inviting to the reader.

 

There is no clear introduction of the main topic and/or it is not inviting to the reader.

Body Paragraphs

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.

 

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

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, but does not tie up several loose ends.

There is no clear conclusion, the paper just ends.

Capitalization & Punctuation (Conventions)

Writer makes no errors in capitalization or punctuation, so the paper is exceptionally easy to read.

Writer makes 1 or 2 errors in capitalization or punctuation, but the paper is still easy to read.

Writer makes a few errors in capitalization and/or punctuation that catch the reader's attention and interrupt the flow.

Writer makes several errors in capitalization and/or punctuation that catch the reader's attention and greatly interrupt the flow.