iRubric: 8th Grade ELA Argumentative Essay Rubric

Well-developed argumentative points directly support the writer's thesis / position. Supporting examples are concrete and detailed. Commentary is logical and well-thought-out .Rebuttal acknowledges opposing viewpoints clearly and skillfully. Conclusion revisits the thesis in a new way and applies the writer's position universally.

Most argumentative points are related to the thesis, but one may lack sufficient support or deviates from thesis. Rebuttal acknowledges opposing viewpoint(s) with some logic and clarity. Conclusion summarizes thesis and key points with some "fresh" commentary present.

More than one argumentative point lacks sufficient details and support. Writer attempts to address one or more opposing arguments, but the writer may not refute the opposition clearly or adquately. Conclusion mirrors introduction too closely, with little or no new commentary on the writer's thesis / position.

Most argumentative points are poorly developed. Refutation is missing or vague. Commentary is not present. Conclusion does not re-visit the thesis or summarize key argumentative point(s).

Evidence from sources is smoothly and logically integrated into essay and serves to add credibility & insight into writer's position / thesis. All sources are cited accurately adn are highly relevant and reliable.

Evidence from source(s) is integrated into the text. Most sources are cited accurately and are generally relevant and reliable.

Some source material is used and may or may not lend credibility to writer's position / thesis. Several sources may not be cited accurately. Relevance and reliability may be questionable.

Little or no source material is used. Source citations are not evident or may be highly inaccurate. Relevance and/or reliability are strongly in question.