iRubric: Essay Exam Rubric

The essay illustrates poor understanding of the course material by (1) failing to address or incorrectly addressing the relevant content; (2) failing to identify or inaccurately explaining/defining key concepts/ideas; (3) ignoring or incorrectly explaining key points/claims and the reasoning behind them; and (4) incorrectly or inappropriately using terminology.

The essay illustrates rudimentary understanding of the course material by: (1) mentioning, but not fully explaining, the relevant content; (2) identifying some of the key concepts/ideas (though failing to fully or accurately explain many of them); (3) using terminology, though sometimes inaccurately or inappropriately; and (4) incorporating some key claims/points, but failing to explain the reasoning behind them (or doing so inaccurately).

The essay illustrates solid understanding of the course material by correctly: (1) addressing most of the relevant content; (2) identifying and explaining most of the key concepts/ideas; (3) using correct terminology; (4) explaining the reasoning behind most of the key points/claims; and (5) (where necessary or useful) substantiating some points with accurate examples.

The essay illustrates exemplary understanding of the course material by thoroughly and correctly: (1) addressing the relevant content; (2) identifying and explaining all of the key concepts/ideas; (3) using correct terminology; (4) explaining the reasoning behind key points/claims; and (5) (where necessary or useful) substantiating points with several accurate and original examples.

Sources are seldom cited to support statements and/or format of the document is not recognizable as either MLA or APA format.

Although references to Sources are occasionally given, but many statements seem unsubstantiated. There are frequent errors in APA or MLA format leaving the reader confused about the source of information and ideas.

Sources are used effectively to support claims and are, for the most part, clear and fairly represented. APA or MLA format may be used with a few minor errors.

Sources are used to give compelling evidence to support claims and are clearly and fairly represented. APA or MLA format is used accurately and consistently.