A (4 points)

B (3 points

C (2 points)

D (1 point)

Clearly and effectively responds to assignment

Response to assignment generally adequate and thorough

Minimally responds to the assignment

Does not respond well to the assignment

Main idea (thesis) very clearly stated and topic is effectively limited

Main idea clear and topic is limited

Main idea clear or implicit and topic is partially limited

Main idea unclear and topic only partially limited

Organization and structure very evident: major points divided into paragraphs and signaled by use of transitions. Each paragraph has a topic sentence; sentences within each paragraph relate to each other and are subordinate to the topic. Introduction and conclusion effectively related to the whole

Organization and structure clear. Most major points are separated into paragraphs and signaled by transitions. Paragraphs are built on related sentences that logically develop the main points. No major digressions. Introduction and conclusion effectively related to the whole.

Organization and structure are mostly clear. Many major points are separated into paragraphs and signaled by transitions. Most points are logically developed. There may be a few minor digressions but no major ones. Introduction and conclusion are somewhat effective.

The organization and structure must be inferred by the reader. Only some major points are set off by paragraphs and are signaled by transitions. There are some logically connected points. There may be some major digressions. Introduction and conclusion may be lacking or ineffective.

Voice and tone are consistent and appropriate to the audience/purpose

Voice and tone consistent and appropriate although somewhat generic or predictable in places

Voice and tone adequate to audience/purpose although often generic or predictable.

Voice noticeably generic or inappropriate (e.g. first person narrative may predominate in an analysis assignment). Tone is often inappropriate.

Full variety of sentence structures used correctly. Word choice interesting, accurate and contributes to the writer's ability to communicate the purpose

Variety of sentence structures used correctly despite an occasional flaw. Accurate and varied word choice

Sentences and Word choice predictable. Occasional errors in sentence structure, usage and mechanics do not interfere with writer's ability to communicate the purpose.

Little sentence structure variety; wording predictable; few synonym alternatives used. Errors in sentence structure, usage and mechanics sometimes interfere with the writer's ability to communicate the purpose.

Few if any, minor errors in sentence construction, usage, grammar, spelling or mechanics

There may be a few minor or major errors in sentence construction, usage, grammar, spelling or mechanics

There are some common errors (major and minor) in sentence construction and mechanics, but the writer generally demonstrates a correct syntax.

There a numerous minor errors and some major errors. Sentence construction is below mastery and may display a pattern of errors in usage and mechanics.