Essay Rubric

Criteria Excellent Adequate Needs Work

(5) (3) (2)
one main idea per mostly one idea or point many ideas per
paragraph, good use of per paragraph, some paragraph, missing topic
transitions, clear topic transitions, mostly clear sentences, abrupt
sentences, smooth topic sentences, okay transition, and/or
Organization connections between connections between missing or rough
paragraphs, if an order paragraphs connections between
is set in the paragraphs
introduction, it is
followed
Uses specific, concrete, uses support, but it may lacks sufficient details
relevant details, be insufficient in some and examples to support
examples, evidence and areas, or connections ideas; has insufficient or
Development: Support numerous references to between the evidence irrelevant evidence
source material to and ideas might not be
substantiate and explain clear
thesis
Explains the connections Mostly explains does not clearly explain
between evidence and connections between connections between
main ideas thoughtfully ideas and evidence, evidence and ideas;
and thoroughly, makes although explanation does not elaborate
Development: Analysis connections explicit, may be incomplete, or beyond basic or obvious
discusses implications, maybe missing in some conclusions, and/or
relevance or paragraphs. Little analysis is too general or
significance. discussion of facts and brief to be convincing
info

Writing is confident and Writes related, quality Writing does not clearly
clearly focused. It holds paragraphs, with little or communicate
Content / Ideas the reader’s attention. no details. knowledge. The reader
Relevant details enrich is left with questions.
writing.
Reviewer’s Comments

Name: __________________________________________