iRubric: 7th grade Expository Essay 1 rubric

Most ideas are generally related to the topic of the prompt, but the controlling idea is missing or unclear. No organization of ideas.
Does not use Expository structure.

The Expository structure is obvious but not used Not clear because the writer uses organizational strategies that are only somewhat suited to the expository task.Most ideas are generally related to the topic specified in the prompt, but the writer’s controlling idea is weak or somewhat unclear.Lack of an effective controlling idea or the writer’s inclusion of irrelevant information.

The organizing structure of the essay is, for the most part, appropriate to the purpose and responsive to the specific demands of the prompt. The essay is clear because the writer uses organizational strategies that are adequately suited to the expository task.The writer establishes a clear controlling idea. Most ideas are related to the controlling idea and are focused on the topic specified in the prompt.Minor lapses in focus.

The organizing structure of the essay is clearly appropriate to the purpose and responsive to the specific demands of the prompt. Writing is skillfully crafted because the use of organizational strategies are particularly well suited to the expository task.The writer establishes a clear controlling idea. All ideas are strongly related to the controlling idea and are focused on the topic specified in the prompt.Focus is sustained.

The development of ideas is weak. Essay is ineffective because the writer uses details and examples that are inappropriate, vague, or insufficient.Writer’s response to the prompt is vague or confused. In some cases, the essay as a whole is only weakly linked to the prompt.

The development of ideas is minimal. The writer uses details and examples that are not always appropriate or are too briefly or partially presented.?
The essay reflects little or no thoughtfulness. The writer’s response to the prompt is sometimes formulaic. The writer develops the essay in a manner that demonstrates only a limited understanding of the expository writing task.

The development of ideas is sufficient because the writer uses details and examples that are specific and appropriate, adding some substance to the essay. Reflects some thoughtfulness. The writer’s response to the prompt is original rather than formulaic. The writer develops the essay in a manner that demonstrates a good understanding of the expository writing task.

The development of ideas is effective because the writer uses details and examples that are specific and well chosen, adding substance to the essay. Writing
is thoughtful and engaging. Writer uses his/her unique experiences or view of the world as a basis for writing or to connect ideas in interesting ways. The writer develops the essay in a manner that demonstrates a thorough understanding of the expository writing task.