A rubric lists the criteria for what "counts" when I am assessing your writing. You will get to know it well, as you will be using the same rubric when critiquing each-other's writing.
| Category | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Focus on Topic (content) | One clear, well-focused topic. Main idea stands out and is supported by detailed information. | Main idea is clear, but the supporting information is general. | Main idea is somewhat clear, but there is need for more supporting information. | The main idea is not clear. There is a seemingly random collection of information. |
| Accuracy of Facts (content) | All supportive facts are reported accurately. | Almost all supportive facts are reported accurately. | Most supportive facts are reported accurately. | No facts are reported, or most are inaccurately reported. |
| Introduction (organization) | The introduction is inviting, states the main topic, and previous the structure of the paper. | The introduction clearly states the main topic and previous the structure of the paper, but it is not particularly inviting to the reader. | The introduction states the main topic, but does not adequately preview the structure of the paper, nor is it particularly inviting to the reader. | There is no clear introduction of the main topic or the structure of the paper. |
| Sequencing (organization) | Details are placed in a logical order and the way they are presented effectively keeps the interest of the reader. | Details are placed in a logical order, but the way they are presented sometimes makes the writing less interesting. | Some details are not in a logical or expected order, and this distracts the reader. | Many details are not in a logical or expected order. There is little sense that the writing is organized. |
| Flow and Rhythm (sentence fluency) | All sentences sound natural and are easy-on-the-ear when read aloud. Each sentence is clear and has an obvious emphasis. | Almost all sentences sound natural and are easy-on-the-ear when read aloud, but 1 or 2 are awkward or difficult to understand. | Most sentences sound natural and are easy-on-the-ear when read aloud, but several are awkward or difficult to understand. | The sentences are difficult to read aloud because they sound awkward, are distractingly repetative, or difficult to understand. |
| Word choice | Writer uses vivid words and phrases that linger or draw pictures in the reader's mind, and the choice and placement of the words seems accurate, natural, and not forced. | Writer uses vivid words and phrases that linger or draw pictures in the reader's mind, but occasionally the words are used innacurately or seem overdone. | Writer uses words that communicate clearly, but the writing lacks variety, punch, or flair. | Writer uses a limited vocabulary, which does not communicate strongly or capture the reader's interest. Jargon or cliches may be present and detract from the meaning. |
Reproduced for educational use from here. This rubric is not covered under this site's CC license.
