iRubric: Elements of Free Verse Poetry rubric

Poetry strays significantly from proper format.

Poetry strays somewhat from proper format.

Poetry mostly follows proper format.

Poetry follows proper format.

Untitled poetry random rather than cohesive. Reader is unable to perceive theme and is unaffected emotionally, sensibly, and/or intellectually.

Poetry exhibits minimal cohesiveness; reader struggles to follow theme. Titles show little connection to poetry. There is little sustained effect on reader's emotions, senses, and/or intellect.

Poetry is generally thoughtful and cohesive; theme is easy to follow. Title, though appropriate, lacks creativity. Reader's emotions, senses, and/or intellect are stirred in a somewhat sustained manner.

Poetry is well-crafted. Attention-getting title and creatively-constructed, cohesive theme leave no doubt as to the focus. Grabs/transports reader's emotions, stirs reader's senses, and/or appeals to reader's intellect in a sustained manner. Encourages reader to make poetry his own.

Poor mechanics interferes with the poem's readability.

Although poem is readable, frequent errors in mechanics distract the reader.

Few errors in mechanics; thus, reader is seldom distracted. Punctuation/capitalization generally help reader determine poetry's rhythm.

With little exception, mechanical errors are absent. Punctuation/capitalization are highly effective in helping reader determine poetry's rhythm.