NARRATIVE ESSAY

Name: ____________________________________ Topic: _______________________________

Written mainly for enjoyment, a narrative essay is less a formal statement than a relaxed expression of opinion, observation, humour or
pleasure. A good narrative essay has a relaxed style but retains a strong structure, though that structure may be slightly less rigid than in
a formal paper. The informal essay tends to be more personal than the formal. In a formal essay, the writer is a silent presence behind the
words, while in an informal essay the writer is speaking directly to the reader in a conversational style. If you are writing informally, try to
maintain a sense of your own personality. Do not worry about sounding academic, but avoid sloppiness.

Criteria

Incomplete

Limited

Approaching

Meeting

Exceeding

Knowledge/
Understanding
25%

1.

1.

1.

1.Shows considerable insight and depth into the importance

of an experience.

1.

0 12.4%
1.

12.5 14.9%
1.

15 17.4%
1.

17.5 19.9 %
1. Offers highly vivid description and detail in recreating
people, places, and events. Writer consistently and vividly
shows, not tells.

20-25%
1.

0 12.4%
1.

12.5 14.9%
1.

15 17.4%
1.

17.5 19.9 %
1. Introduction engages reader and offers clear, compelling
topic

20-25%
1.

2.

2.

2.

2. Uses a first-person point of view and conversational style

with considerable effectiveness.

2.

3.

3.

3.

3. Conclusion has considerable impact on audience, leaving

the reader with an engaging thought (e.g., memorable image,
idea, or question)

3.

0 12.4%
1.

12.5 14.9%
1.

15 17.4%
1.

17.5 19.9 %
1. Applies grammar, usage, spelling, and punctuation with
considerable accuracy and effectiveness

20-25%
1.

2.

2.

2.

2.Sentence structure is varied, the writing style reflecting a

committed reader. Two-part title is creative and specific.

2.

3.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.

3.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.

3.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.

3. Work adheres to M.L.A. structure:

a. First page includes correct information in correct format.
b. Pagination upper right hand corner includes surname.
c. If in-text citations are used, they are in proper format.
d. Work is double-spaced: 12-pt Times New Roman or
Cambria font.
e. Margins are one-inch.

3.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.

0 12.4%

12.5 14.9%

15 17.4%

17.5 19.9 %

20-25%

Thinking/Inquiry
25%

Communication
25%

Application
25%

Total:

_____/100