iRubric: Research Paper rubric

Very well developed introduction and thesis statement. They engage the reader and create interest. The introduction gives adequate background on the group and topics being discussed in the research paper. The thesis is narrow and takes a clear stance for the underserved gifted population being discussed.

Introduction and thesis statement create interest and are fairly well developed. Background on the research topic is not clear and specific. The thesis begins to take a stance but is not a specific area of concern in our field.

Introduction and thesis statement introduce the research topic but they either do not give accurate and complete information, or they do not emphasize the author's point.

Introduction and thesis statement do not introduce the research topic, or they may not be a complete sentence. No controlling point about the subjects is evident.

A strong case is made for at least 2 works in this domain. The findings are significant.
There is some theory to why this is a common concern in our field.
An example is provided for each.

A case is made for at least 2 works in this domain. The findings are simple but true.
There is some theory to why this is a common concern in our field.
Examples may or may not be provided for each.

A case is made that research in this area does exist. They are vague. The findings are not significant.
There is little theory to why this is a concern in our field.
An example may or may not be provided.

There is no clear research identified or provided.

The entire paper is well cited and supported. The writer uses all they learned on the topic. Reference to our work this semester and other sources read are added to bring credibility to our field.

The entire paper is cited with a few minor errors. The writer references what they learned in the course. Reference to our work this semester and other sources read are noted.

Most of the paper is cited correctly with resources. The writer doesn't use materials from our course. No other sources are mentioned.

No connection to our coursework.

No errors in punctuation, spelling, grammar, or capitalization. This is exceptional graduate level work! The paper is easy to read and makes a strong case for best practices for all special population gifted learners

A few minor errors in punctuation, spelling, grammar, or capitalization, but they do not detract from the overall meaning and effectiveness of the essay. The paper is well written at the graduate level. The tone is professional yet passionate.

A few errors in punctuation, grammar, spelling, and capitalization that. while distracting, the meaning and intent of the essay can still be discerned. The tone and purpose is fair to good. Transitions are appropriate.

Distracting and major errors in grammar, punctuation, spelling, and capitalization. Writing is confusing and hard to follow. Contains fragments and/or run-on sentences. The tone and purpose is inconsistent and difficult to determine. Transitions are either missing or inappropriate.