Takes a Strong, Well-Defined Position (Clear Thesis)

• Takes a strong, well-defined position (Clear thesis)
• Begins each paragraph with a two-way topic sentence that references a relevant supporting idea
• Maintains unifying idea throughout each paragraph

• Clear position taken and clearly defined
• Begins each paragraph with a topic sentence that references a relevant supporting idea
• Generally maintains unifying idea throughout each paragraph

• Position not clearly stated
• Paragraphs are not begun with clear topic sentences but a unifying idea is evident in each paragraph

• No clear position taken
• Paragraphs are not begun with clear topic sentences and fail to carry a unifying idea

• Provides specific examples, concepts and details from the text
• Contains multi-sentence expansions of

• Superior logic, insight and style are evident.

• Provides specific examples, concepts and details from the text
• Contains multi-sentence expansions of important concepts or supporting ideas
• Solid logic, insight and style are evident.

• Provides general examples from the text
• Contains some expansion of important concepts or supporting ideas
• Some logic, insight and style are evident but require further attention.

• Does not adequately support concepts introduced in thesis or topic sentences
• Needs further explanation and examples from text.

• At least one relevant quote in each body paragraph that clearly supports the topic of the paragraph and the thesis
• Quote selection goes beyond summary to prove a meaningful assertion
• Quotes are integrated with perfect punctuation and correct citations

• At least one relevant quote in each body paragraph that supports the topic of the paragraph
• Quote selection goes beyond summary to prove a meaningful assertion
• Quotes are somewhat integrated with mostly correct punctuation and correct citations

• At least one relevant quote in each body paragraph that supports the topic of the paragraph
• Quote selection goes beyond summary to prove an assertion
• Quotes are somewhat integrated with mostly correct punctuation and correct citations

• At least one relevant quote in each body paragraph
• Quote selections are used for summary rather than argument
• Integration is nonexistent or poorly executed

• Demonstrates logical, subtle sequencing of ideas through well-developed paragraphs
• Skillful use of transitions

• Demonstrates logical sequencing of ideas through well-developed paragraphs
• Effective use of transitions

• Demonstrates some type of logical sequencing of ideas
• Rote use transitions is evident

• Lacks logical sequencing of ideas
• Fails to use transitions

• Accurate spelling, punctuation, and capitalization
• Present Tense Verbs
• Nearly perfect grammar
• Strong vocabulary

• Few errors in spelling, punctuation, and capitalization
• Present Tense Verbs
• Strong grammar
• Good vocabulary

• Weak sentence structure
• Some errors in spelling, punctuation, and capitalization
• Present Tense Verbs
• Multiple types of errors in grammar
• Repetitive vocabulary

• Sentences are confusing
• Multiple errors in spelling, punctuation, and capitalization
• Multiple types of errors in grammar
• Weak vocabulary

Reminders for Introductions and Conclusions

Introduction contains the following:

• author’s full name, title, and genre (does not need to be a part of the thesis statement)
• three point overview
• Thesis – succinct, direct, specific, provides unquestionable direction for essay by addressing the prompt with a specific theme - underlined please.

Conclusion does the following:

• Effectively returns to thesis
• References author’s accomplishment in literary frame
• Synthesizes all components of argument.