SWA 1 Rubric: Topic Proposal on Close Reading Essay (20 points)

Does the Topic Proposal have a correct heading and is it written in MLA format? (2 pts.)

Is the thesis statement focused and specific? (3 pts.)

Are the paragraphs well-organized, cohesive and sufficiently developed? Does the paper have complete sentences that are well-
structured? (2 pts.)

Are there minimal grammar and/or spelling errors that don’t impact comprehension? Did the writer use appropriate word choice for
an academic paper? (2 pts.)

Does the writer explain HOW and WHY their thesis statement involves interpretation by exploring ideas that are suggested in the
text? In other words, does it show a clear understanding of the text with plans for a thorough interpretation that will include both
analysis and synthesis of ideas? (5 pts.)

Did the student discuss why another reader might have a view different from their own? (3 pts.)

Did the student talk about a particular scene/section of the text that will be discussed in detail in the essay? (3 pts.)