Informative Essay Rubric

Criteria / Standard / Exemplary
Exceeds Standard / Proficient
Meets Standard / Partial Approaches Standard / Minimal Begins Standard / Standard Not Observed
FOCUS/
ORGANIZATION / Clear thesis introduces the topic, main idea,or purpose of essay according to the particular audience. Contains transitions that aid in flow and connection of ideas. Provides conclusion that supports information presented extending the significance of the topic.
CONTENT/
DEVELOPMENT/
ELABORATION / Thoroughly develops the assigned topic with well-chosen, relevant, authoritative, known sources, extended definitions, concrete details, quotations, or other information and examples. Integrates graphic texts and research to strengthen thesis.
STYLE/TONE/DICTION / Uses language and tone relevant to the topic. Language is precise, clear, appropriate, and effectively expresses ideas. Objective tone suits the purpose of the writing (does not include writer’s emotions or bias).
POINT OF VIEW / Essay is written from third person point of view. Writer does not use first person (I/We) or second person (You).
RESEARCH/
EVIDENCE / Research is correct,authoritative, reliable, and relevant and documented by usingMLA guidelines. Citations tie clearly to appropriately formatted bibliography. Research is integrated using short, direct quotations or paraphrasing. There is no suspicion of plagiarism.
CONVENTIONS / Few if any errors in usage and sentence formatting. Sentences are varied in length and style. Effective use of spelling, capitalization, and punctuation with insignificant errors that need editing.
FORMATTING / MLA guidelines are observed: numbered pages, proper heading (no title page),12 point font,Times New Roman, double spaced, paragraphs indented,one inch margins, and hanging indents on bibliographic entries.
  • Exceeds Standard—writer exceeds the standard specified in the rubric.
  • Meets Standard--writer exhibits weaknesses in some areas of the standard, yet exhibits strengths in others.
  • Approaches Standard--writer does not often meet the standard and may exhibit several weaknesses in attempting to do so.
  • Begins Standard--writer struggles to approach the standard and fails to demonstrate mastery in several areas.
  • Standard Not Observed--writer demonstrates few if any of the standards established.

Plagiarism – if any part of the essay is intentionally plagiarized, the paper will earn a zero (0), and the student will earn a “U” in citizenship for the quarter. There is NO opportunity for a re-write when the paper is plagiarized! If three or more errors of source citation are observed, the essay will receive an automatic 50% credit reduction. The student will be encouraged to revise the essay to correct these errors for credit restoration.