Student:

Criteria

Points Possible

Points

Earned

Content/Development

All key elements of the assignment are covered in a substantive way.

45

Content is comprehensive, accurate, and/or persuasive.

Major points are stated clearly and are supported by professional literature or logic.

Meaningful use of source material and analytical reasoning to elaborate upon the topic or theme.

Research is adequate and timely for the topic.

The context and purpose of the writing is clear.

Organization

The introduction provides sufficient background on the topic and previews major points.

40

Ideas flow in a logical sequence.

The structure of the paper is clear and easy to follow.

The paper’s organization emphasizes the central theme or purpose.

Paragraph transitions are present, logical, and direct the flow of thought throughout the paper.

The conclusion logically derives from the paper’s ideas.

The conclusion reviews the major points toward the appropriate audience.

Format

The paper includes a title page and 8–10 full pages of content.

15

The paper is laid out effectively and uses reader-friendly aids (e.g., section summaries, tables of contents, indices, appendices, etc.) when appropriate.

The reference page(s) contains 5 scholarly citations.

The paper follows APA format guidelines.

The paper is written in 12 point font, Times New Roman; is double-spaced; and has 1 inch margins.

The work is original, giving credit to all borrowed ideas.

Grammar/Punctuation/Spelling

Rules of grammar, usage, and punctuation are followed.

15

Spelling is correct.

Readability/Style

Sentences are complete, clear, and concise.

10

Sentences are well constructed with consistently strong and varied structure.

Sentence transitions are present and direct the flow of thought.

Words used are precise and unambiguous.

Total

125

Instructor’s comments: