Novice

Intermediate

Expert

Self Evaluation

Teacher Evaluation

Introduction and Conclusion

Thesis and conclusion underdeveloped.  Argument not consistent and unclear.  Too short.

Thesis states argument with some skill.  Conclusion ends essay and re-states the thesis.  Writing not spectacular but sufficient.

Short and sweet! Thesis poignant, grabs reader attention, and states argument well.  Conclusion ends paper powerfully, draws conclusions, re-states main argument.

   /30

Quality of Argument and Organization

40 points!

Argument incomplete.  Assertions not substantiated.  Ideas undeveloped.  No understanding of task, audience and purpose.  Too short to evaluate.  Language does not allow the reader to comprehend the piece.

  Essay makes an argument and backs it up.  Develops ideas, but in a limited way.  Demonstrates understanding of task, audience and purpose.  Able to understand argument, but it could be clearer and could go deeper.

Ideas presented in all their complexity, as author draws conclusions and offers informed opinions with considerable nuance and insight.  Language lets the reader read and comprehend the piece.  Demonstrates clear understanding of task, audience, and purpose.  Shows originality, imagination, and thoughtfulness.  Clearly shows writer’s personality and uniqueness.  

/40

Fluency and Mechanics

Writing uneven and awkward.  Grammar mistakes and misspellings.   Mechanical errors make essay hard to understand.

Correct grammar and usage.  Writing intelligible.  Some mechanical errors that do not interfere with understanding.

Language is graceful.  Essay flows smoothly.  Writing clear at all times.  Essay easy to read and understand.  Very few or no mechanical errors.

   /20

Facts and Support

Missing vital information.  Gaps in arguments and assertions not backed up by facts and/or evidence.

Basic information presented.  Some elaboration on essential information.

Extensive use of supporting information and quotes (4 quotes from book; 2 freedom quotes).  Elaborates on simple facts in great detail.  Complexity of subject illustrated.  Ideas clear and backed up with evidence and examples.

   /10

Total Points:

     /100