WRITING RUBRIC (3-8)

Limited Command Category 1 Adequate Command 3 Strong Command 5

The paper is clear and focused. It holds the readers attention. Relevant anecdotes and details enrich the central theme.

Score

IDEAS

The writer is beginning to define the topAs yet, the paper has no clear sense of purpose or central theme. To exic, even though the development is still tract meaning from the text, the read- basic or general. er must make inferences based on sketchy or missing details. The writer lacks a clear sense of diThe organizational structure is strong rection. Ideas, details or events seem enough to move the reader through the strung together in a loose or random text without too much confusion. fashion; there is no identifiable internal structure. The writer seems indifferent to the topic and content. The writing lacks purpose and audience engagement. The writer seems sincere, but not fully engaged or involved. The writing has a discernible purpose, but is not compelling.

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ORGANIZATION

The organization enhances and showcases the central idea or theme. The order, structure, or presentation of information is compelling and moves the reader through the text. The writer speaks directly to the reader in a way that is individual and compelling. The writer crafts the writing with awareness and a respect for the audience and purpose for writing.

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VOICE

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WORD CHOICE

The writer demonstrates a limited vocabulary or has not searched for words to convey specific meaning. The reader has to practice quite a bit in order to give this paper a fair interpretive reading. Errors in spelling, punctuation, capitalization, usage, and grammar, and/or paragraphing repeatedly distract the reader and make the text difficult to read. The reader receives a garbled message due to problems relating to the presentation of the text.

The language is functional, even if it Words convey the intended message in a lacks much energy. It is easy to figure out precise, interesting and natural way. The the writers meaning on a general level. words are powerful and engaging. The text hums along with a steady beat, but tends to be more pleasant or businesslike than musical, more mechanical than fluid. The writer shows reasonable control over a limited range of standard writing conventions. Conventions are sometimes handled well and enhance readability; other times, errors are distracting and impair readability. The writers message is understandable in this format. The writing has an easy flow, rhythm and cadence. Sentences are well built, with strong and varied structure that invites expressive oral reading. The writer demonstrates a good grasp of standard writing conventions and uses conventions effectively. Errors tend to be so few that just minor touch-ups would get this piece ready to publish. The form and presentation of the text enhances the ability for the reader to understand and connect with the message. It is pleasing to the eye.

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SENTENCE FLUENCY

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CONVENTIONS

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PRESENTATION

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