AP® English Language and Composition

Scoring Rubric for Question 1: Synthesis Essay

0 POINTS 1 POINT
For any of the following: Defensible thesis
THESIS

No defensible thesis Clear position

ROW A
Simple restatement of prompt only
Summary of topic with no clear claim
States an apparent fact rather than a defensible claim.
Off-topic

0 POINTS 1 POINT 2 POINTS 3 POINTS 4 POINTS

EVIDENCE & COMMENTARY

Simple restatement of EVIDENCE: EVIDENCE: EVIDENCE: EVIDENCE:

thesis (if existing). 2 sources used only Sufficient evidence Sufficient evidence S
 ufficient evidence
OR (3+ sources) (3+ sources) (3+ sources)
Relevant evidence
 ewer than 2 sources
F Relevant evidence Relevant evidence that R
 elevant evidence that
AND
referenced supports the claims in the supports all the claims in

ROW B
AND
COMMENTARY: line of reasoning. the line of reasoning.
OR COMMENTARY:
 ummary of evidence
S AND AND
 pinion-based with no text
O with no explanation of Simplistic or inaccurate
evidence COMMENTARY: COMMENTARY:
connection to claim connection
Clear connection between W
 ell-organized line of
Limited supporting claims
some of the evidence and reasoning.
Lacks a line of reasoning the thesis. C
 onsistent use of evidence
Faulty line of reasoning Multiple claims included. and support of multiple
key claims.
Slight lapses in support of
key claims.
0 POINTS 1 POINT
SOPHISTICATION

Sweeping generalizations of context Nuanced thesis that is supported throughout the argument
Complicated/complex sentences, or language is ineffective Acknowledgement of limitations and implications of an argument (by the

ROW C
student or included in the sources) that examines the broader context
Successful rhetorical choices by the student
Mature and consistent writing style 

TOTAL POINTS EARNED: /6

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