iRubric: The Shakespearean Sonnet rubric

Poetry follows proper sonnet format. Virtually all of the following applies: 14 lines, problem/solution appropriately divided, iambic pentameter, proper rhyme scheme for selected style.

Poetry mostly follows proper sonnet format but has elements of one or more other poetry forms. 2-4 lines contain less than or more than 10 syllables. Frequently some of the following apply: 14 lines, problem/solution appropriately divided, iambic pentameter, proper rhyme scheme for selected style.

Poetry strays somewhat from proper sonnet format, has elements of one or more other poetry forms, has less or more than 14 lines, 5+lines have more or less than 10 syllables in each line, and usually contains at least one of the following: problem/solution appropriately divided, iambic pentameter, and proper rhyme scheme for selected style.

Poetry does not sound like either sonnets. Does not have 14 lines, problem/solution inappropriately divided, does not follow iambic pentameter, follows no rhyme scheme.

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.

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 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.

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

With little exception, mechanical errors are absent. Punctuation/capitalization are highly effective in helping reader determine poetry's rhythm, in 4 or more lines.

Few errors in mechanics; thus, reader is seldom distracted. Punctuation/capitalization generally help reader determine poetry's rhythm, in 3 lines.

Although poem is readable, frequent errors in mechanics distract the reader, in 2 lines

Poor mechanics make it diffucult for the people to read it, in 1 or none lines.