CATEGORY

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Introduction (Organization)

The introduction is inviting, makes a clear thesis statetment and previews the structure of the paper.

The introduction clearly states the thesis and previews the structure of the paper, but is not particularly inviting to the reader.

The introduction states the thesis, but does not adequately preview the structure of the paper nor is it particularly inviting to the reader.

There is no clear introduction of the main topic or structure of the paper.

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.

Focus on Topic (Content)

At least 5 quotes are effectively used to support the thesis.

At least 3 quotes are effectively used to support the thesis.

Three or fewer quotes are used which may or may not effectively support the thesis.

Quotes are either not used or not effective in supporting the thesis.

Sequencing (Organization)

Details are placed in a logical order and the way they are presented effectively keeps the interest of the reader. Thoughtful transitions clearly show how ideas are connected.

Details are placed in a logical order, but the way in which they are presented/introduced sometimes makes the writing less interesting. Transitions clearly show how ideas are connected , but there is little variety.

Some details are not in a logical or expected order, and this distracts the reader. Some transitions work well; but ideas betwee other ideas are fuzzy.

Many details are not in a logical or expected order. There is little sense that the writing is organized. Transitions are unclear or nonexistant.

Pacing (Organization)

The pacing is well-controlled. The writer knows when to slow down and elaborate, and when to pick up the pace and move on.

The pacing is generally well-controlled but the writer occasionally does not elaborate enough.

The pacing is generally well-controlled but the writer sometimes repeats the same point over and over, or spends too much time on details that don't matter.

The pacing often feels awkward to the reader. The writer elaborates when there is little need, and then leaves out necessary supporting information.

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.

Sentence Structure (Sentence Fluency)

All sentences are well-constructed. Essay contains simple, compound, complex and compound-complex sentences.

 

Most sentences are well-constructed but one or more structures are not used.

Sentences lack structure and appear incomplete, awkward or rambling.

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.

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.

Penmanship (Conventions)

Paper is double spaced, neatly written in cursive, or typed in 12 pt font with no distracting corrections. Complete heading and title are used.

Paper is double spaced, neatly written or typed in 12 pt font with 1 or 2 distracting corrections. Title and complete heading are present.

The writing is generally readable, but the reader has to exert quite a bit of effort to figure out some of the words. Heading or title may be incomplete

Many words are unreadable OR there are several distracting corrections OR complete heading OR title are missing.

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 paper just ends.