iRubric: Application Essay Rubric

Background details are a random collection of information: They are unclear or unrelated to the topic. The introduction doesn't appear to consider the reader.

Introduction is adequate and includes some background information, yet it may lack detail and creativity. It may need to do more to catch the reader's attention, or it may not quite fit the focus of the essay.

Introduction creates reader interest and is fairly well-developed. It contains some background information and/or details, and it fits the focus of the essay.

A well-developed introduction catches the audience's attention and creates interest. The beginning of the essay contains background information so that readers can understand the story's context. A guiding sentence close to the beginning conveys the focus of the essay.

Background details are a random collection of information: They are unclear or unrelated to the topic. The conclusion doesn't appear to relate to the topic.

Conclusion is adequate and briefly summarizes, yet it may lack detail and creativity. It may need to do more to bring closure, or it may not quite fit the focus of the essay.

Conclusion holds reader interest and is fairly well-developed. It summarizes and/or ties into introduction and body.

A well-developed conclusion holds the reader's attention. The ending comes full circle and ties in with opening. A guiding sentence restates the thesis in closing the essay.

Writing is confusing, hard to follow. Contains fragments and/or run-on sentences. Inappropriate word choice.

Writing is clear, but sentences may lack variety. Word choice is appropriate, although more specific choices would empower the writing.

Writing is clear, and sentences have varied structure. Some figures of speech, active verbs and precise and powerful modifiers have been used. Word choice is superior.

Writing is smooth, skillful, and coherent. Figures of speech, active verbs and precise and powerful modifiers are used to create strong and expressive sentences of varied structures. Word choice is specific and excellent.