EXCEEDS STANDARD

ACHIEVES STANDARD

DOES NOT ACHIEVE

STANDARD

Purpose

A clear purpose is established in

an engaging introduction,

effectively maintained

throughout the body of the paper,

and reinforced and extended in a

conclusion that suggests

directions for further inquiry.

A clear purpose is established

in the introduction, supported

throughout the body of the

paper, and reinforced in the

conclusion.

Purpose is not clear or is not

fulfilled; writing lacks an

adequate introduction, body,

and/or conclusion.

Flow

Paper is highly unified and

coherent; transitions between

sentences and between

paragraphs enhance the

relationship of ideas throughout.

Paper is unified and coherent;

transitions between sentences

and between paragraphs are

logical.

Paper is difficult to

understand; transitions are

missing or confusing; paper

presents information

haphazardly.

Evidence

and Analysis

Main ideas are extensively

supported by pertinent facts,

vivid details, relevant examples,

and original and insightful

analysis.

Main ideas are supported with

appropriate facts, details,

examples, and analysis.

Main ideas are unclear; facts,

examples, and details are

lacking or fail to support

ideas; no analysis or insight.

Grammar/

Usage/

Mechanics

Grammar, spelling, punctuation,

and usage contribute to clarity

and style of the writing.

Usage and mechanics do not detract from the effectiveness of the writing.

Errors in grammar, usage, and

mechanics detract from the

effectiveness of the writing.