iRubric: Rubric for 5 Paragraph Persuasive Essay

The essay does not begin with a clear introduction. The thesis statement may not in the introduction at all or it may not be clear. None of the arguments are previewed.

The essay begins with an introduction. It is made up of three to five sentences. It is somewhat clear. Some arguments are not clearly previewed.

The essay begins with a clear intro & solid lead (hook) that is interesting. The thesis is part of the introduction, but it could be clearer/stronger. All arguments (3 main pts) are previewed.

The essay begins with a strong clear introduction. It is made up of three to five clearly written sentences. All arguments (3 points) are previewed.

The second body paragraph is not clear enough. It attempts to support the thesis but does not do so clearly. Too much necessary information has been left out. Not enough specific details and examples have been used. Transitional words have probably not been used. Does not contain opposition and appropriate flip

There is a paragraph which follows the introduction. It attempts to support the thesis but may not do so clearly. Not enough specific details and examples have been used. Transitional words have not been effectively used. It does not come to a strong finish. May or may not contain oppostion and appropriate flip

The second body paragraph is good. The sentences all work together to support the thesis statement. Transitional words could been used more often/clearly. Specific details and examples have been used. It may end but may not come to a strong close. Contains oppostion and appropriate flip

The second body paragraph is strong. All of the sentences clearly connect to each other. Smooth and precise transition words have been used. This paragraph contains a clear reason which supports the thesis and is backed up with at least two reasons. Enough specific details and examples have been used. Contains opposition and appropriate flip.

There are no persuasive techniques used, or the technique(s) that is used is used incorrectly or ineffectively.

Only one persuasive technique is used in the essay to argue the writer's claim. The techniques are chosen thoughtfully.

Two persuasive techniques are used throughout the essay to effectively argue the writer's claim. The techniques are chosen thoughtfully.

Three or more persuasive techniques are used throughout the essay to effectively argue the writer's claim. The techniques are chosen thoughtfully, with the audience in mind.

Mechanics, Usage, Grammar, Spelling...Paper contains a lot of errors that negatively affect or weaken the meaning of the writing. Several misspelled words, misplaced commas, missing/incorrect punctuation, improper grammar, overuse of linking verbs and lack of descriptive words/phrases.

Paper contains many errors that sometimes effect the paper's content and hurt the quality of the writing. Several misspelled words, misplaced commas, missing punctuation, improper grammar, overuse of linking verbs and lack of descriptive words/phrases are noticed but not overabundant

Mechanics, Usage, Grammar, Spelling...Paper contains minimal errors that do not effect the paper's content. Grammar quality and mechanics add to the writing. Nice use of descriptive words and/or vivid verbs, but definitely could be improved.

Mecahincs, Usage, Grammar, Spelling...Paper contains few or no errors. Sentence structure and the writers's grasp on grammar enhance the quality of the writing. Vivid verbs & descriptive phrases as well as excellent use of topic-based nouns create a terrific paper.