iRubric: Argumentative Essay rubric

*The claim is effectively proven to be true.
*Student successfully stated and developed the claim over the course of an essay.

Claim is not effective and not clearly proven to be true.

Claim is unclear, inaccurate and/or not developed.

*Claim is clearly identifiable and placed properly in first paragraph.
*Well written topic sentences introduce the subject of the paragraph.
*Paragraphs follow the order of the claim and flow logically.
*Transitions are logical and clear.
*Introductions and conclusions are well written and enhance the overall understanding of the topic.

*Claim is not immediately identifiable.
*Topic sentences are weak but present.
*Paragraphs are not clearly organized.
*Some use of transitions.
*Introduction and conclusion are poorly written.

*Claim is weak.
*Topic sentences are absent or poorly written.
*Paragraphs are poorly organized.
*Transitions are not used.
*Introduction and/or conclusion are too short or are missing.

*Precise and strong word choices help the reader to understand the topic and the claim.
*Attempt to use synonyms so that the same words are not used over and over again.
*Topic specific words strengthen the essay.

*Some use of strong words.
*Words are often repeated.
*Topic specific words are occasionally used.

*Poor choice of words: lack of strong words.

*Attention to details and careful editing help the reader to understand the topic.

*There are some obvious errors that could be eliminated by careful editing and attention to details.

*Many errors make the paper hard to read.