These are the guidelines used to evaluate your essays. Your work is evaluated in four categories: 1) response to the assignment and related questions, 2) development of evidence, 3) composition/organization, and 4) written expression (grammar, spelling, etc.).
An “A” Essay:
- Responds to the assignment and related questions thoroughly and intelligently; demonstrates critical thinking and a solid understanding of the subject matter
- Has a clear introduction to the source (including most of the 5 Ws) and a nuanced conclusion that is the product of careful reading and reflection
- Uses substantial, relevant evidence and specific examples from the document (including appropriate citations)
- Has a coherent structure
- Has a focused discussion that doesn’t follow rabbit trails
- Has a clear, concise, and easy-to-follow style
- Contains virtually no grammatical or mechanical errors
A “B” Essay:
- Responds to the question intelligently, but has a less nuanced discussion than an “A” essay
- Uses appropriate evidence, though the analysis is less comprehensive than an “A” essay
- Is generally well-structured
- Has a relatively clear writing style
- Has a few grammatical or mechanical errors, but not many
A “C” Essay:
- Attempts to address the document but misunderstands the document or provides more summary than analysis
- Has a competent, but uninspiring, discussion of the source
- Includes some evidence and examples, although these are sparse and or misused (the citations are formatted incorrectly or are misused)
- Demonstrates some problems with focus, coherence, and organization
- Has grammatical and mechanical problems
A “D” Essay:
- Does not address the guidelines of the assignment (virtually no analysis of the document)
- Includes little (or no) specific evidence (with no or few citations)
- Has noticeable problems with organization, style, and grammar
- Is difficult for the reader to follow
