iRubric: Argument-Persuasion Essay rubric

Each paragraph contains a clearly focused topic sentence that relates to the thesis statement.<BR>
Reasons for the argument are clearly stated, and there are enough details/research to support the argument effectively and thoroughly. Concrete and specific examples are presented that effectively support and strengthen the argument.

Each paragraph contains a topic sentence related to the thesis statement.<BR>
Reasons for the argument are stated and there are enough details and examples to support/research the argument adequately and logically. But ONE paragraph may be missing RESEARCH.

Each paragraph contains a topic sentence but the relationship to the thesis is not clearly evident in each one.<BR>
Reasons for the argument are stated, but there are few concrete and specific details or NO RESEARCH/examples to support the argument adequately or logically.

Each paragraph does not contain a topic sentence.<BR>
Reasons for the argument are not stated, or there are obvious fallacies that contradict the details and examples. Perhaps the argument is an unsupported rant.

Examples are used effectively, without going over board into emotionalism. Also, if warranted provides a call to action. Examples and details are in a very effective order that enhances and strengthens the argument as presented in the thesis statement.

Examples/details are in a clear effective order and they adequately support the argument as presented in the thesis statement.

Examples/details are in a discernible order, but there are not enough to effectively support the argument as presented in the thesis statement OR it borders on emotionalism, thereby turning off the audience.

Pathos is too emotional and has no discernible organization. Reasons are either missing or not in any discernible order. They do not support the argument or there are obvious fallacies in the proposed logic.

Author shows the reader both sides of the argument, including giving a clear example for both. However, they strongly prove that their assertion is the correct one to be taken seriously. All reasons are effectively supported by details and examples that are presented in a very effective order that enhances and strengthens the argument as presented in the thesis statement.

Author relays to the reader both sides of the argument, giving a somewhat unbiased example for the opposing view. They argue effectively for their side, but it could be stronger. Details and examples are presented in an effective order that strengthens the argument as presented in the thesis statement

Author does not relay both sides of the argument and/or does not give an unbiased example for the opposing view. Their assertion is not effective and needs to be stronger. Details and examples are Not presented in an effective order that strengthens the argument as presented in the thesis statement

Author does not show both sides or shows it in a very biased manner.

No errors in punctuation, spelling, grammar, or capitalization.

A few minor errors in punctuation, spelling, grammar, or capitalization, but they do not detract from the overall meaning and effectiveness of the paragraph.

A few errors in punctuation, grammar, spelling, and capitalization that, while distracting, the meaning and intent of the paragraph can still be discerned.

Distracting and major errors in grammar, punctuation, spelling, and capitalization.

The Works Cited page is without errors.

The Works Cited page has an error.

The Works Cited page also has a couple of errors.

The Works Cited page is full of errors.