iRubric: Cause-Effect Essay rubric

Very well-developed introduction with a clear thesis statement
that illustrates a causal relationship and makes a central point about it. It engages the reader and creates interest. Contains accurate and complete information regarding the topic to be described.

Introduction contains a thesis statement.
The thesis creates interest and is fairly well developed with a focus that somewhat illustrates a causal relationship and central point. But while it contains accurate and complete information regarding the causal relationship being described, it is not very engaging.

Introduction contains a thesis statement, but it either does not give accurate and complete information about the causal relationship, or it lacks detail and creativity.

Thesis is misleading, hard to find, or does not present a compelling argument for the causal relationship.

The conclusion is effective. It contains a strong restated thesis, summary, and closing sentence which provide insight as to the implications of the information provided. Full circle technique is effectively completed.

The conclusion is somewhat effective.
It may contain a restated thesis that was not reworded and a partial summary, but it does not provide insight. Full circle technique is attempted and is moderately successful.

The information provided in conclusion is very limited. Conclusion is very short and does not make an impact. Full circle technique is attempted but not successful

There is no clear conclusion. The essay just ends after a body paragraph.

Full circle technique is not attempted

The writer demonstrates proper use of vocabulary that adds to the quality of writing and enhances the overall meaning of the topic.

All five vocab words are used

Word choice is adequate for grade level

Four vocab words are used

The writer utilizes adequate vocabulary choices, although words are occasionally either misused or out-of-place.


3 vocab words are used

Word choice is generally unremarkable, misused or out-of-place.

Fewer than 3 words used

Writer uses many compound/complex sentences

Writing style is clear, flows, and consistently maintains an academic tone.

Writer uses many compound/complex sentences.

Writing style for the most part is clear, flows, and consistently maintains an academic tone with minor lapses

Writer uses some compound/complex sentences.

Writing style contains several lapses in tone.

Many primer-style sentences are used throughout.

All three rhetorical terms are used correctly

Only two rhetorical terms are attempted

Or

Only 2 of the 3 attempted are correct

Only 1 rhetorical term is used and/or attempted

Rhetorical terms are not attempted