iRubric: PSYC 777: Empirical Research Paper Rubric

Hypothesis is clear and explicitly stated. The organization is complete and logical with a progression of ideas leading to an understanding of why the research is needed and/or why the intervention/design/experiment is likely to work. Discusses relevant research on the research topic. Past work is discussed in an interesting and logical way. Illustrates creative thinking and insight gained from past research.

Hypothesis is clear, but not explicitly stated. The reader must search for the hypothesis. There is a logical progression with occasional breaks in flow of content and a lack of transitions. Reader is convinced that idea for project is important. Relevant research is discussed in a logical way.

The hypothesis is alluded to, but never clearly stated. Logical progression is minimal with disconnected ideas. Reader has difficulty following the development of the topic and seeing why the project will work. Relevant research is barely discussed and only at the surface level.

There is no hypothesis identifiable. There is no logical progression in the development of the topic and ideas are disconnected and may confuse the reader. There is no rationale for why this project will be effective and there is no literature review.

Results from the study are clearly described including descriptive data and at least one figure or chart that are properly labeled. Analyses are correct and clearly and completely described. Figures and charts are described in the text.

Results are described sufficiently with data presented.
Data analysis or descriptive technique is correct and generally is clearly and completely described although there may be some absent details. At least one pictoral presentation of the data is used (figure, graph, chart) and explained in the paper.

Data analysis and/or discussion has some errors or is incomplete. Clarity of report needs improvement. Incorrect or absent figure/chart.

Data is analyzed and discussed incorrectly. Report is incomplete and is not clear. No pictoral display of findings is present.

APA style is used correctly (note esp. headings, citations, reference list, tables and figures). All sources are properly cited in both.

APA style is used with only few or minor errors or omissions (note esp. headings, citations, reference list, tables and figures). All sources are properly cited in both paper and bibliography.

APA style is used with several or major errors or omissions (note esp. headings, citations, reference list, tables and figures). Not all sources are properly cited in both paper and bibliography.

Many major APA style errors or omissions (note esp. headings, citations, reference list, tables and figures). Sources are not properly cited in both paper and bibliography and may be absent.