Rubric+for+Essays


 * Advanced** (A)
 * Ideas are original, intelligent and successfully developed using the best textual evidence available
 * Clearly, precisely and insightfully addresses the writing prompt
 * Organization is logical and sophisticated with effective use of transitions within and between paragraphs.
 * Word choice is precise and highly developed
 * Manipulates sentence structure for stylistic effect.
 * Demonstrates command of mechanics, although a few errors may exist.


 * Proficient** (B)
 * Ideas are logical and developed using textual evidence
 * Clearly addresses the writing prompt and effectively maintains it throughout the paper
 * Organization is logical, with effective use of transitions within and between paragraphs.
 * Word choice is effective
 * Varied sentence structure
 * Demonstrates an understanding of mechanics.


 * Basic** (D or C)
 * Ideas are vague or underdeveloped; inconsistent use of textual evidence
 * Inconsistent focus on the writing prompt
 * Organization is lacking a logical sequence with ineffective transitions within and/or between paragraphs.
 * Word choice is acceptable, but simplistic and repetitive
 * Simple, awkward and/or confusing sentences.
 * Contains frequent and distracting mechanical errors


 * Minimal** (F)
 * Ideas are neither developed nor supported
 * Little focus on prompt
 * Not organized in any meaningful way.
 * Word choice is elementary and/or consistently inappropriate for audience.
 * Ineffective sentences
 * Difficult to comprehend with frequent errors