ResearchEssayRubric111.docx

Rubric for Research/Cause or Effect: Essay #3

Student Learning Outcomes

Students will demonstrate an understanding causal analysis. Students will apply this understanding to create a comprehensive thesis statement that argues for a causal chain of events.

Excellent

Proficient

Average

Weak

Unacceptable

The paper has a central purpose and an insightful approach to the subject. The introduction ends with a one-sentence thesis statement which clearly addresses the assigned prompt.

The paper has a clear approach to the subject. The thesis may be misplaced or vague. The thesis addresses the prompt provided in the assignment.

The paper lacks a clear thesis, has a thesis that does not show insight into the subject, or has a thesis which is not expressed clearly in the introduction. It may be unclear as to whether the thesis addresses the prompt.

Students will find adequate research, analyze texts, derive a meaningful interpretation of those texts, and use that interpretation to argue their thesis statements.

Excellent

Proficient

Average

Weak

Unacceptable

Unified with a relevant introduction and conclusion, research is used to make clear connections between the thesis statement and topic sentences, focused body paragraphs, effective topic sentences, a logical progression of ideas, and smooth transitions.

The paper is organized logically, but there could be clearer and research could be better used to make connections between topic sentences and the thesis statement, better-focused body paragraphs, more effective topic sentences, a more logical progression of ideas, or better transitions.

The paper does not show an understanding of essay structure, and fails to use research adequately in this regard. The paper may lack topic sentences, connections between the thesis statement and body paragraphs, focused body paragraphs, a logical progression of ideas, or effective transitions.

Students will apply standard rules of grammar and mechanics
Worth 30%

Excellent

Proficient

Average

Weak

Unacceptable

The paper is free or almost free from grammar and punctuation errors.

The paper has grammar and punctuation errors, but most errors are minor.

Excessive major grammar and punctuation errors inhibit the clarity of thought.

Students will apply the standard requirements of MLA format.
Worth 15%

Excellent

Proficient

Average

Weak

Unacceptable

The MLA format of the paper is correct, without error.

Most of MLA formatting is correct. Any noted errors are minor.

There may be several formatting problems or lack of attention to MLA format guidelines.