English 2Draegan

Spring 2010

English 2 Essay Grading Rubric

Description Superior 90-100% A
Superior writing but may have minor flaws.

Response to Topic
Clear and effective response to all aspects of task. Asserts an insightful, complex argument.

Use of Passage
Critical understanding of text offering an insightful and persuasive response.

Clarity/Quality of Thought
Thoughtful, in depth exploration of issues. Logical development of ideas.

Organization, Development, Support

Effectively and logically organized, developed, and supported by apt reasons and well-chosen examples.

Syntax, Command of Language

Sophisticated fluent style marked by syntactic variety and clear command of language.

Grammar, Usage, Mechanics

Generally free from errors in grammar, usage, and mechanics.

MLA
Accurate, appropriate, and effective usage and format of intext citations and Works Cited per MLA guidelines. Few errors in usage and format of in-text citations and Works Cited per MLA guidelines. Numerous errors in format, some awkward and/or ineffective usage of in-text citations and Works Cited per MLA guidelines. Major errors in format and/or ineffective usage of in-text citation and Works Cited per MLA guidelines. Absence of intext citations and/or Works Cited.

Strong 80-89% B

Clear competence. Some errors but not serious enough to distract reader.

Addresses topic clearly, but responds to some aspects of task more effectively than others. Asserts a strong argument. Addresses topic, but slights some aspects of the task. Contains an argument but may be simplistic or vague.

Critical understanding of text and developed, well reasoned response. Demonstrates control of the elements of effective writing. Generally accurate understanding of text in developing a sensible response.

Some depth and complexity of thought. Makes some logical connections in analysis.

Well organized and developed

with ideas supported by appropriate reasons and examples.

Some syntactic variety and facility in the use of language.

Few errors in grammar, usage, and mechanics.

Satisfactory 70-79% C

Competent writing, perhaps marginally so. Some errors distract reader, but do not obscure meaning.

Treats topic simplistically or repetitively. Ineffectual use of logic.

Adequately organized and developed. Ideas generally supported, perhaps in a limited way, with relevant reasons and examples.

Limited control of syntax and imprecise use of language.

Occasional major or frequent minor errors in grammar, usage, and mechanics.

Inadequate 60-69% D

Developing competence. Flawed in some significant ways.

Distorts or neglects aspects of the task. Does not contain an argument. Presents observations about the topic or text. Confusion about the topic or neglects important aspects of the task. Does not contain an argument. Summarizes text.

Some understanding of text, but may misconstrue parts or make limited use in developing a weak response. Very poor understanding of the main points of the text, does not use text appropriately in developing a response, or may not use text at all.

Lacks focus and/or logical development. Demonstrates confused or simplistic thinking.

Poorly organized and developed, presenting generalizations without adequate and appropriate support. Examples inadequately support ideas. Poorly organized and underdeveloped, providing little or no relevant support.

Inadequate control of syntax, vocabulary, and use of language.

Accumulation of errors in grammar, usage, mechanics that frequently interfere with meaning. Marred by frequent and serious errors in grammar and usage that severely interfere with meaning.

Very Weak 59% and Below F

A very weak essay. Is seriously flawed.

Unfocused, illogical, or incoherent.

Lacks basic control of syntax, vocabulary, and use of language.