iRubric: 3080J Essay One rubric

Sentences are all fluid, well-constructed and clear. Sentence type is varied and effective. Ideas are sophisticated and demonstrate a deep understanding of the assignment criteria and broader intent. Word choices are not only always appropriate, but sometimes highly sophisticated and unusual.

Sentences are all grammatical and clear. Sentence type is somewhat varied. Ideas are clearly stated and demonstrate some understanding of criteria and intent. Word choice is always appropriate.

Sentences are mostly grammatical and clear. Sentence type is only slightly varied, and/or attempts at creating compound and complex sentences are often unsuccessful. Word choice is usually appropriate.

Sentences are frequently unclear, with awkward syntax. Most sentences are simple declarative type. Any attempts at creating compound/complex sentences are usually unsuccessful. There are several instances of incorrect or confusing word choice.

The introduction is fresh and compelling, and lays out a clear and complete plan for the essay. Body paragraphs are well-organized and tied together by transitions that inform the reader of the connection between ideas. Transitions are excellent choices, integral, not simply sequential (first, second, another, next, etc.).

The introduction lays out a clear and complete plan for the rest of the essay, though it might be too broad. Paragraphs are organized and cohesive, and are tied together with transitions that inform the reader of the connection between ideas. Transitions are logical and not only sequential (first, second, another, next, etc.).

The introduction lays out a plan for the rest of the essay, though it might be incomplete, repetitive, disorganized or too broad. Paragraphs are organized and cohesive, but but some transitions are sequential (first, second, another, next, etc.) rather than integral.

The introduction does not really lay out a plan for the rest of the essay. The writer seems unsure of what he or she wants to say, and so rambles or is repetitive. The body of the essay lacks structure. Some paragraphs are too long and packed or short and undeveloped. There might be some transitions, but they are mainly sequential.

The essay is highly polished, with one or two (if any) typos or errors in spelling, grammar, or punctuation. There are no missing or extraneous words.

The essay is fairly polished, but contains a few typos or errors in spelling, grammar, or punctuation, and/or a few instances of missing or extraneous words.

The essay contains numerous typos, errors in spelling, grammar, or punctuation, missing or extraneous words.

The essay seems rushed or dashed off without care. There are many errors of various kinds.