Summer Reading Contest Rubric

For more detail on the criteria below, please see our post Writing Rich Responses.

Excellent (4) Proficient (3) Developing (2) Beginning (1)

Personal Connections: Response explains how

the Times piece connects to the writer’s own life,
interests, questions or concerns, and explores
the relationship between the reader and the topic
or text.

Critical Thinking: Response traces aspects of the

writer’s thinking while engaging with the text. This
may include details of what the writer noticed and
wondered, connections made, emotional reactions,
critiques of the piece, and more.

References to Times Source Material: Via the use

of quotes or references to specific details from
the text, response shows evidence that the writer
read closely, and reacted to new or notable
information or ideas.

Voice and Style: Response is written in a natural

and engaging voice and uses language, style
and tone appropriate to its purpose. Features
correct grammar, spelling and punctuation.

Contest Guidelines: Follows all the rules and

guidelines as detailed in our contest
announcement.