10 (Sophisticated) 8 (Developing)
Focus & Details There is one clear, well focused topic.
Main ideas are clear and are well
supported by detailed and accurate
information/evidence to support
claim.
Organization The introduction is inviting (strong
hook), states the main topic, and
provides an overview of the
paper(structure/upcoming elements).
Information is relevant and presented
in a logical order and
evidence/readings is used properly.
The conclusion is strong.
Word Choice The writer uses vivid words and
phrases. The choice and placement of
words seems accurate, natural, and
not forced.
Mechanics, grammar, All sentences are well constructed
sentence structure, & and have varied structure and length.
spelling The author makes no errors in
grammar, mechanics, and/or spelling.
Transition Use: Writer used transitions to lead the
Coherent para./ reader across parts of their writing
cohesive sentences and to note how parts of the text
relate back to other parts. Writer uses
transitions to create cohesive
sentences and coherent paragraphs.
6 (Progressing)
There is one clear, well focused
topic. Main ideas are clear but
are not well supported by
detailed information/evidence.
The introduction states the main
topic and provides an overview
of the paper. There is a hook,
though weak. A conclusion is
included, though not strong.
The writer uses vivid words and
phrases. The choice and
placement of words is inaccurate
at times and/or seems overdone.
Most sentences are well
constructed and have varied
structure and length. The author
makes a few errors in grammar,
mechanics, and/or spelling, but
they do not interfere with
understanding.
Writers used transitions to help
readers understand how different
points of information fit together.
Writer used transitions to help
connect ideas and information or
examples in order to create
relationships.
4(Beginner)
There is one topic. Main ideas are
somewhat clear but evidence
does not support claim or there is
a lack of evidence use.
The introduction states the main
topic. A conclusion is included.
The writer uses words that
communicate clearly, but the
writing lacks variety.
Most sentences are well
constructed, but they have a
similar structure and/or length.
The author makes several errors
in grammar, mechanics, and/or
spelling that interfere with
understanding.
Writer used transitions sparingly
and left the reader feeling a little
lost in the context and
connections between sentences,
paragraphs, and relationships
between ideas.
The topic and main ideas are not clear.
There is no use of evidence or
information to support claim.
There is no clear introduction, structure,
or conclusion.
The writer uses a limited vocabulary.
Jargon or clichs may be present and
detract from the meaning.
Sentences sound awkward, are
distractingly repetitive, or are difficult
to understand. The author makes
numerous errors in grammar,
mechanics, and/or spelling that interfere
with understanding.
No effort to use transitions to create
flow, connections, or coherence in the
essay.