iRubric: Literary Analysis Essay rubric

Each body paragraph contains a clear topic sentence that focuses each paragraph around one point.

Text evidence is related to the topic sentence and used effectively.

Explanations in the body paragraphs are clear and well developed, and there are enough details to show a deep understanding of the literary work.

Each body paragraph contains a clear topic sentence that focuses each paragraph on one point.

Text evidence is related to the topic sentence

Explanations are adequate but lack detailed explanation to show deep understanding of the literary work.

Body paragraphs are present and focus on one topic.

Text evidence is used, but it is not strong support for the topic.

Explanations are vague and do not develop the writer's ideas completely.

Body paragraphs are present and relate to the thesis.

Text evidence is ineffective.

Explanations are short and ineffective.

Analysis of the literature is complete and shows clear reasoning, has excellent support (text evidence and details), shows a deep understanding of the text and the claims of the thesis.

Analysis of the literature is evident and shows good reasoning, has adequate support (text evidence and details), shows an understanding of the text and the claims of the thesis.

Analysis of the literature is attempted, has text support (text evidence and details), and attempts to understand the text and the thesis.

Analysis of the literature is not present and reads more like a summary of the text.

Writing is smooth, skillful, and coherent.

Sentences are strong and expressive with varied structure.

Writing is clear and coherent.

Sentences have varied structure.

Writing appears rushed or underdeveloped.

Multiple sentence fragments or run-on sentences are present.

Writing is confusing and hard to follow. Sentence structure is missing throughout the essay.