IDEAS /15 ORGANIZATION /15 WORD CHOICE /15

5 This paper is clear and focused. It 5 The organizational structure of this
holds the reader’s attention.
Relevant details and evidence enrich
the central argument.
 The topic is narrow and
manageable.
 Relevant, telling, quality
details go beyond the obvious
 Reasonably accurate details.
 Ideas are fresh and original.
 Reader’s questions are
anticipated and answered.
 Shows insight into topic
3 The writer is beginning to define
the topic, even though development is
still basic or general.
 The topic is fairly broad and
unspecific.
 Support is attempted.
 Ideas are reasonably clear.
 Writer has difficulty going
from general observations to
specifics.
 The reader is left with
questions.
 The writer generally stays on
topic.
1 The paper has no clear sense of
purpose or central theme. The
reader must make guesses about
meaning based on missing details.
 Writer is still in search of
topic.
 Information is limited or
unclear.
 The writer uses paraphrase or
summary/no analysis.
 The text may be repetitious,
disconnected, and contains too
many random thoughts.
5 Words convey the intended
paper enhances the central idea.
 An inviting introduction draws
the reader in; a satisfying
conclusion leaves the reader
with a sense of closure and
resolution.
 Thoughtful transitions.
 Sequencing is logical and
effective.
 Pacing is well controlled.
 The title is original, creative.
 Flows so smoothly, the reader
hardly thinks about it.
3 The organizational structure is
strong enough to move the reader
through the text without too much
confusion.
 The paper has a recognizable
introduction and conclusion.
 Transitions often work well.
 Sequencing shows some logic,
yet structure takes attention
away from the content.
 Pacing is fairly well
controlled.
 A title is present, but is not
original or creative.
1 The writing lacks a clear sense of
direction.
 No real lead or introduction.
 Connections between ideas are
confusing/No transitions
 Sequencing needs work.
 Pacing feels awkward.
 No title is present.
 Problems with organization
make it hard for the reader to
get a grip on the main point or
story line.
message in a precise, interesting, and
natural way.
 Words are specific and
accurate.
 Striking words and phrases.
 Natural, effective and
appropriate language.
 Lively verbs, specific nouns
and modifiers.
 Language enhances and
clarifies meaning.
 Precision is obvious.
3 The language is functional, even if
it lacks much energy.
 Words are adequate and
correct in a general sense.
 Familiar words and phrases
communicate.
 Attempts at interesting
language.
 Passive verbs, everyday nouns,
mundane modifiers.
 Functional, with one or two
fine moments.
 Occasionally, the words show
refinement and precision.
1 The writer struggles with a limited
vocabulary.
 Words are non-specific or
distracting.
 Many of the words don’t work.
 Language is used incorrectly
 Limited vocabulary, misuse of
parts of speech.
 Words and phrases are
unimaginative and lifeless.
 Persistent redundancy

PRESENTATION (5 points)
5 The presentation of the text enhances the ability for the reader to understand and connect with the message.
 Uses MLA format correctly.
 Evidence of major revision and editing is clear from first draft to final draft.
3 The writer’s message is understandable in this format.
 Uses MLA format, but not always correctly
 Little evidence of revision and editing from first draft to final draft.
1 The reader receives a garbled message due to problems relating to the presentation of the text.
 MLA format is not used
 No revision or editing done.