Essay Rubric
Sophomore English

The paper successfully realizes a stated or inferable purpose or intention. (Purpose)

1
2
3
4

The paper makes sense at the sentence level in terms of content: it says what it means. (Clarity)

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2
3
4

The paper makes sense at the sentence level in terms of grammar and mechanics: the writer avoids common writing errors. (Accuracy)

1
2
3
4

The paper is well-organized: there is an apparent logic and the parts are clearly related and well-balanced. (Logic, Coherence)

Macro Level
1
2
3
4
Paragraph Level
1
2
3
4

The paper addresses a significant question or makes a "care-about-able" point (Relevance, Significance)

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2
3
4

The writer presents a credible analysis of the text(s) based on a careful reading. (Plausibility)

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2
3
4

The writer smoothly and accurately incorporates relevant direct quotations from the text into the paper. (Specificity)

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2
3
4

The writer purposefully considers more than one point of view, and/or considers all relevant information. (Breadth)

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2
3
4

The writer moves beyond the obvious or predictable to discuss substantive issues. (Depth)

1
2
3
4

Reflection: The writer is able to articulate his/her thinking
about the writing process clearly and effectively.

1
2
3
4

Key to scoring:

4 = Excellent, exemplary
3 = Good, perhaps a few minor weaknesses

2 = Acceptable, but problematic
1 = Seriously flawed, major weaknesses