Argument Writing

Five-Paragraph Essay Checklist

Name _________________________________ Topic ______________________________
Essay
Element
1. Title
2. Introductory
Paragraph
3. Thesis
Statement
4. 1st Body
Paragraph

nd

5. 2 Body
Paragraph

rd

6. 3 Body
Paragraph
7. Concluding
Paragraph
8. Transition
Words and
Phrases
9. Proofreading

10. Format

Total

Criteria for Evaluation

My title gives the reader a clue of what my
central idea will be and hooks my reader.
Introductory paragraph includes an effective
hook, and some background information to
introduce the topic.
My thesis statement is included in the
introductory paragraph and includes my claim
and the main reasons that support my claim.
Each paragraph states a clear reason that
supports my claim, cites relevant evidence from
credible sources, and explains how the reason
supports the claim.
Each paragraph states a clear reason that
supports my claim, cites relevant evidence from
credible sources, and explains how the reason
supports the claim.
Counter-argument: An opposing claim is
addressed and relevant evidence is provided to
overcome this claim.
The concluding paragraph summarizes my claim
and reasons and includes a clincher or call to
action.
At least five transition words and phrases are
used throughout the essay to help connect and
clarify the relationships among the ideas.
Spelling, grammar, capitalization, and
punctuation were checked carefully and all
errors were corrected to the best of my ability.
I used correct MLA format throughout the essay.

Points
Possible
10

Personal
Evaluation

Teachers
Evaluation

10
10
10

10

10
10
10
10
10
100

Common Core Standards Addressed

W.6.1
W.6.1.a
W.6.1.b
W.6.1.c
W.6.1.d
W.6.1.e

Write arguments to support claims with clear reasons and relevant evidence.
Text Types and Purposes: Introduce claim(s) and organize the reasons and evidence clearly.
Text Types and Purposes: Support claim(s) with clear reasons and relevant evidence, using credible
sources and demonstrating an understanding of the topic or text.
Text Types and Purposes: Use words, phrases, and clauses to clarify the relationships among claim(s)
and reasons.
Text Types and Purposes: Establish and maintain a formal style.
Text Types and Purposes: Provide a concluding statement or section that follows from the argument
presented.