Novice

Intermediate

Expert

Self Evaluation

Teacher Evaluation

Response to Essay Question

Essay question not answered!  Thesis has nothing to do with essay question - or there is no thesis!

Answers essay question more or less, in a round-about manner.    Answer to essay question only partially answered!  Thesis lacks focus and is unclear. 

No more nor any fewer words than are needed to answer fully the essay question: THESIS SHORT, SWEET, AND TO THE POINT!  Thesis answers essay question exactly.  Thesis re-stated in conclusion.

   /12

Analysis of Poem  

13 points!

Incomplete or inadequate.  Superficial explanation of poem.  Few or no quotes from poem.  Main body paragraphs too short.

Some analysis of poem with some quotes, but most important parts of poem are neither quoted nor analyzed - or most important parts of poem are discussed but then not quoted in essay.

Extensive explanation and analysis of poem with all or most literary elements identified and pointed out.  Student sees deeply into poem and brings out what is not readily apparent.  Essay refers often to specific words or lines and quotes most important sections of poem.  Profound and correct understanding of poem.

   /13

Correctness, coherence, completeness*

Many grammatical errors.  Little or no focus.  Short and superficial.  Weak conclusion; essay just ends.

Some grammatical errors, with some arguments that have nothing to do with thesis.  Writing is flabby, lacks vigor, and wants for depth and bite.  Essay meanders a bit. 

Entire essay is focused on supporting and explaining a stated thesis.  Language is fluid and graceful.  Introduction is brief and vigorous while conclusion gives a "cap" to essay.  Profound and correct understanding of poem.

/5

Total Points:

     /30