Thanksgiving Essay Rubric

Traits / 5 / 3 / 1

Conventions

/ The writing demonstrates exceptionally strong control of standard conventions (spelling, punctuation, grammar, paragraph breaks) and uses them effectively to enhance communication. Errors are very few and so minor that the reader might skim over them. / The writing demonstrates control of standard writing conventions ((spelling, punctuation, and grammar, paragraph breaks). Minor errors are present, but do not impede readability. / The writing demonstrates little control of standard writing conventions ((spelling, punctuation, and grammar, paragraph breaks). Frequent and significant errors are present and affect the readability of the piece.
Ideas / The writing is exceptionally clear. It holds the readers attention throughout. Main ideas stand out and are supported. / The writing is clear and focused. T he reader can easily understand the main ideas. Supporting details are there, but are limited or general. / Main ideas and purpose are somewhat unclear or development is attempted but minimal. The writing has no supporting details or repeats the same ideas throughout.
Sentence Fluency / The writing has an effective flow and rhythm. Sentences show a high degree of craftsmanship, with consistently strong and varied structure that makes expressive oral reading easy and enjoyable. / The writing flows; however, conventions between phrases or sentences may be less than fluid. Sentence patterns are somewhat varied and contribute to an overall ease of reading. / The writing tends to be either choppy or rambling. Awkward constructions often force the reader to slow down and re-read.
Topic Sentences / Each paragraph contains a topic sentence, one sentence beginning with a preposition, one with two adjectives, one with “ing” verb and ends with a transitional sentence. / Most paragraphs contain at least a topic sentence, one sentence beginning with a preposition, one with two adjectives, one with “ing” verb and ends with a transitional sentence. / Paragraphs did not follow the correct format or lacked at least two to three requirements.
Paragraph Indentation / All paragraphs are indented, begin with a capital letter and end with correct punctuation. / Some paragraphs are indented, begin with a capital letter and end with correct punctuation. / Most paragraphs do not include indentation, begin with a capital letter and/or end with correct punctuation.
Final Draft
Presentation / The final draft is written on the Thanksgiving paper, is neatly written and demonstrates best effort. / The final draft is written on the Thanksgiving paper, is poorly written and does not demonstrate best effort. / The final draft is written on the regular paper, is poorly written and does not demonstrate best effort.
Your Points
Total Points / 30