The Absolutely True Diary of a Part time Indian Essay Outline Rubric

Criteria / Level One
(50-59%) / Level Two
(60-61%) / Level Three
(70-79%) / Level Four
(80-100%)
Knowledge and Understanding:
  • Understanding of chosen essay question/prompt
  • Textual evidence (quotations)
  • Topic Sentences
  • Introduction/conclusion
/ shows limited understanding of essay topic
Quotes are not relevant. All quotes are not cited
Topic sentences not evident. Topic sentences are facts or summaries.
No introduction and/or conclusion / shows some understanding of essay topic
Quotes are somewhat relevant. Some quotes are not cited
Topic sentences are not linked to thesis. Topic sentences show misunderstanding of prompt.
Introduction or conclusion are confusing and don’t flow with the argument of the essay / shows considerable understanding of essay topic
Quotes help strengthen the argument and most are cited
Topic sentences are present and make an argument connected to the thesis, but ideas are obvious/basic
Introduction and conclusion include all the elements on the outline (broad general statement, narrowing focus, etc.) / shows thorough and sophisticated understanding of essay topic
Quotes are well chosen and strengthen the argument. All quotes are cited.
Topic sentences articulate precise argument and logically link to the thesis
Introduction and conclusion are sophisticated and well-written. All elements are included (broad general statement, narrowing focus, etc.)
Thinking/Inquiry:
  • Analysis in “explanation” element of PPE sequence
  • Thesis statement (argument)
/ develops ideas in “explanation” with limited logic and coherence
Argument is weak, scattered. Ideas are poorly developed. / develops ideas in“explanation” with some logic and coherence
Argument is somewhat coherent and sequential. Ideas are somewhat developed. / develops ideas in “explanation” with considerable logic and coherence
Argument is coherent and well developed. / develops ideas in thesis and “explanation” with a high degree of logic and coherence
Argument is very coherent well developed.
Communication:
  • Use of the essay form
( PPE sequence)
  • Style (formal language, present tense, contractions, avoid the use of “I”)
/ shows limited command of the essay form, including thesis construction and PPE sequence.
Poor stylistic elements. Informal language, contractions, weak vocabulary. / shows some command of the essay form, including thesis construction and PPE sequence.
Decent stylistic elements. Attempts to use formal language. Some contractions. / shows considerable command of the essay form, including thesis construction and PPE sequence.
Good stylistic elements. Third person voice, good vocabulary. / shows extensive command of the essay form, including clear and sophisticated thesis construction and effective PPE sequence.
Exceptional use of stylistic elements. Strong fluid, formal voice. Strong vocabulary.
Application:
  • Language conventions (grammar and spelling)
/ applies grammar, spelling, punctuation and word usage with limited accuracy and effectiveness / applies grammar, spelling, punctuation and word usage with some accuracy and effectiveness / applies grammar, spelling, punctuation and word usage with considerable accuracy and effectiveness / applies grammar, spelling, punctuation and word usage with a high degree of accuracy and effectiveness