iRubric: Essay writing rubric

No main idea, purpose, theme; writer seems uncomfortable with topic or changes subject; Hastily assembled notes, random thoughts; writer needs to define topic - then gather information.

Writer lacks clear vision - still defining topic - key question; writer struggles with insufficient knowledge - writing is strained; broad unsupported observations, invented details; filler, writing to fill space.

Clear, focused moments are overshadowed by undeveloped texts; writer needs greater knowledge of topic - gaps apparent; marked by common knowledge and best guesses; generalities or lists of undeveloped points

Clear and focused more often than not;writer knows topic well enough to write in broad terms;some new information, some common knowledge; main ideas can be easily inferred, quality details outweigh generalities.

Clear. focused, compelling - holds the reader's attention; reflects thorough knowledge of topic; Authentic, convincing information from experience/research; Clear main idea well supported by facts.

Clear, focused, compelling ideas; strong main idea; striking insight, impressive knowledge of topic;<BR>
Takes reader on a journey of understanding

Words chosen to fill page; apparent struggle to get words on paper; language does not speak to reader. 2 or less vocabulary words used correctly

Tired words, the wrong word, or thesaurus overload;Have to search hard for moments that work well;Word choice and wordiness cloud the message;Adjective avalanche - where are the verbs? Reader must work hard to get the picture. Only 3 vocabulary words used correctly.

Language clear on a general level - "first thoughts";Broad brushstrokes with an occasional stronger moment;Vague words or wordiness water down the message;Overused modifiers/weak verbs outnumber strong moments;Reader may encounter cliches, or overwritten text(writing to impress). Only 4 vocabulary words used correctly.

Functional, clear language used correctly;Easy to understand, some eye- and ear- catching phrases;Vague words(fun, nice) or wordiness - meaning still clear, though;Some strong verbs;Strong moments outweigh cliches, tired words, overwritten text. Only 5 vocabulary words used correctly.

Natural language used well;Engaging - makes you want to keep reading;well-chosen words enhance meaning - concise;Strong verbs, striking phrasing;Words appeal to senses, create clear images. 6 vocabulary words used correctly.

Everyday language used in original ways;You want to read it moer than once - to savor it;Every word carries its own weight;Powerful, stunning verbs, unique phrasing;words capture what is hard to express. 7 or more of the vocabulary words used correctly.

Serious, frequent errors;Reading/processing text takes attentive effort;Errors on basics obscure meaning, put up road blocks;Word by word editing needed prior to publication.

Frequent distracting errors;Errors get in the way of message, require frequent rereading;Numerous errors even on basics;Line by line editing needed prior to publication.

Noticeable, distracting errors;Errors may slow reader or effect message in spots;Problems even with basic conventions;Thorough,careful editing needed prior to publication

Noticable errors - however, reader breezes right through;Errors do not interfere with meaning;Shows control over basics(caps, end punctuation);Good once-over needed prior to publication.

Minor errors that are easily overlooked; Conventions support meaning, voice;Ready to publish with light touch-ups.

Only the pickiest editors will spot errors;Conventions enhance meaning, voice;Complexity of text showcases wide range of conventions;Virtually ready to publish.