iRubric: The Research Paper rubric

Paragraph breaks make no sense. Topic sentences and transitions are absent or unhelpful.

Paragraph breaks, topic sentences, and transitions sometimes guide the reader but are often absent or unhelpful.

Paragraph breaks, topic sentences, and transitions are for the most part clear and helpful to the reader.

Paragraph breaks, topic sentences, and transitions guide the reader clearly and effectively throughout the paper.

Errors render the paper nearly incomprehensible. Formatting is grossly unprofessional.

Errors are severe or numerous enough to cause difficulties for the reader. Formatting is quite unprofessional.

Errors are noticeable but do not interfere with the reader's understanding. Some formatting problems exist.

Spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors are minimal. The paper is at least seven pages long and typed in a standard 12-point font with one-inch margins.