Name:__________________________ Period:________

Comparison Essay
In a two- three page essay, you need to respond to the following: Analyze the similarities and differences between Hinduism and Buddhism. The final copy should follow these guidelines: Typed Times New Roman Double spaced 12 point font You need to cite any sources using MLA documentation

Rubric
Basic Core Criteria 1. Has acceptable thesis. (1 point) a. The thesis correctly addresses similarities and differences between both religions. b. The thesis must be accurate for the time period, but specific dates are not necessary. c. The thesis must be explicitly stated in the introduction of the essay. d. The thesis may appear as one sentence or multiple sentences. e. A thesis that is split among multiple paragraphs, or merely restates the prompt, is unacceptable. f. The thesis statement cannot be counted for credit in any other category. 2. Addresses all parts of the question, though not necessarily evenly or thoroughly a. For 2 points: TWO similarities and TWO differences are addressed b. For 1 point: One similarity and one difference are addressed 3. Substantiates thesis with appropriate historical evidence (2 points) a. For 2 points: The essay provides at least Six examples of specific evidence that supports the role of major belief systems, with at least one example from each region. b. For 1 point: The essay provides at least Three examples of specific evidence that supports the role of major belief systems, with at least one example from each region. Points Earned

4. Makes at least TWO relevant direct comparison between/among societies (1 points) a. Makes at least TWO explicit, relevant comparisons about the role of major belief systems. b. The direct comparison must be distinct from the thesis statement. 5. Analyzes at least one reason for a similarity or difference identified in a direct comparison. (1 point) Typical sentence may include: This was a difference between Hinduism and Buddhism because. Total for Basic Core (If a score of 7 is earned, turn over to assess Expanded Core) Expanded Core Criteria (Each item is worth one point up to a maximum of two points) 1. Has a clear, analytical, and comprehensive thesis. ( 1 points) 2. Thoroughly addresses all parts of the question. (1 points) 3. Provides ample historical evidence to substantiate thesis. ( 1 point) 4. Makes several direct comparisons between or among societies. (1 point) 5. Consistently analyzes the causes and effects of relevant similarities and differences (1 point) Expanded Core points (out of 2) Points Earned

Grand Total ( out of 9 Points)

BE SURE TO STAPLE THIS RUBRIC TO YOUR FINAL PAPER!!! GRADING SCALE Score of 9 = A 100 Score of 8 = A- 92 Score of 7 = B+ 86 Score of 6 = B 83

Score of 5 = C+ 79 Score of 4 = C 75 Score of 3 = D+ 70 Score of 2 = 66 Score of 1 = 64 Score of 0 = 50