Short Story Assessment
Ideas
20 This story is clear and focused. It holds the reader’s attention. Relevant
anecdotes and details enrich the central theme.
A. Uses “show” details rather than simply “telling” about the basic events.
B. The subplot uses a conflict that enhances the major plot.
C. The reader’s questions are anticipated and answered.
D. Dialogue furthers the plot and serves to develop the characters.
12 The writer is beginning to define the topic, even though development is still basic
or general.
A. Takes the reader through the plot with more “tell” than “show” used in description.
B. The sub plot, while present does not enhance the basic idea, and may serve as a distraction.
C. The story leaves unanswered questions in the minds of readers.
D. The dialogue seems forced and unnatural at times.
2 The story has no clear sense of purpose or central theme. To extract meaning, the reader must make inferences based on sketchy or missing details. The writing contains several of the following problems.
A. The main idea is missing and the story seems a brainstorming activity in search of missing pieces.
B. Ideas contain all “tell” and no “show” details.
C. The subplot seems missing or undefined. Total x 3 ______
Organization
20 The organization enhances and showcases the central theme or idea. The order and structure is compelling and moves the reader through the text.
A. Details seem to fit where they are placed; sequencing is logical and effective.
B. The story includes at least two scenes or settings that flow from one to another drawing the reader into the story line.
C. At least one major flashback and two minor flashbacks take are used to develop the story.
E. The story contains a pace of tension and release that skillfully builds towards the ultimate climax.
12 The organizational structure is strong enough to move the reader through the text without too much confusion.
A. The plot, while predictable, is easily followed. However, it includes some
seemingly inconsequential events.
B. The story’s scenes or settings seem forced or unnatural.
C. The flashbacks are limited and don’t serve to enhance the story.
D. The topic is fairly broad; however you can see where the writer is headed
2 The writing lacks a sense of direction. Ideas and details, or events seem strung together in a loose fashion; there is no identifiable internal structure. The writing reflects more than one of these problems.
A. The plot is disconnected and contains random thoughts with no discernible point.
B. Two settings or scenes are not present.
C. There are no flashbacks in the story.
D. Problems with organization make it hard for the reader to get a grip on the main point or story line. Total x 2______
Voice
20 The story speaks directly to the reader in a way that is individual, compelling, and engaging. The writer “aches with caring,” yet is aware and respectful of the audience and purpose for writing.
A. The tone gives flavor and texture to the message that are appropriate for the story.
B. The story includes a consistent point of view and from here speaks in an honest and personal way.
C. The piece screams to be read aloud, shared, and talked about.
12 The writer seems sincere, but is not fully engaged or involved. The result is pleasant or even personable, but not compelling.
A. The writing communicates in an earnest, pleasing manner.
B. The point of view is not constant or obvious throughout the piece.
C. There are only one or two moments here or there that surprise delights or moves the reader.
2 The writer seems indifferent, uninvolved, or distanced from the topic and/or audience. As a result the piece reflects more than one of the following problems.
A. The writing speaks in a kind of monotone that flattens all potential highs and lows.
B. The point of view seems missing from the piece.
C. The writing is lifeless or mechanical. Total x 2 ______
Word Choice
20 Words convey the intended message in a precise, interesting, and natural, way. The words are powerful and engaging.
A. The language brings the story to life.
B. Words create pictures that linger in your mind.
C. Lively verbs energize the writing.
12 The language, while functional, lacks energy.
A. Words are adequate; they simply lack flair and originality.
B. The paper has one or two fine moments.
C. Attempts at colorful language sometimes go too far, (thesaurus overload).
2. The writer struggles with a limited vocabulary, searching for words to convey meaning. The writing reflects on or more of the following problems.
A. Language is vague and only a limited message comes through. (It was fun. She is nice. We did lots of stuff.)
B. Word is used incorrectly, distracting from the story’s intended message.
C. Problems with language leave the reader wondering what the writer is trying to say. The words just don’t work in this piece. Total______
Requirements
20 The story meets and exceeds all requirements on the assignment sheet.
12 The story is basic and predictable and while it meets all the requirements it lacks moments of brilliance.
2 The story lacks at least two or three of the requirements from the assignment sheet. Total ______
Conventions
20 The reader demonstrates a good grasp of standard writing conventions (e.g., spelling, punctuation, capitalization, grammar, usage, paragraphing) and uses conventions effectively to enhance readability. Errors tend to be so few that just minor touch-ups would get this piece ready to publish.
12 The writer shows reasonable control over a limited range of standard writing conventions. Conventions
are sometimes handled well and enhance readability; at other times, errors are distracting and impair readability.
2 Errors in spelling, punctuation, capitalization, usage, and grammar and/or paragraphing repeatedly distract the reader, making the text difficult to read. Total ______
Total points ______/200
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