iRubric: Writing Assignments Rubric

Does not respond to the assignment,
lacks a thesis or central idea, and
may neglect to use sources where
necessary

- Content is incomplete.
- Major points are not clear and /or persuasive.

- Content is not comprehensive and /or persuasive.
- Major points are addressed, but not well supported.
- Research is inadequate or does not address course concepts.

A solid paper, responding
appropriately to assignment. Clearly
states a thesis/central idea, but may
have minor lapses in development.
Begins to acknowledge the
complexity of central idea and the
possibility of other points of view.
Shows careful reading of sources,
but may not evaluate them critically.
Attempts to define terms, not always
successfully.

Excels in responding to assignment.
Interesting, demonstrates
sophistication of thought. Central
idea/thesis is clearly communicated,
worth developing; limited enough to
be manageable. Paper recognizes
some complexity of its thesis: may
acknowledge its contradictions,
qualifications, or limits and follow
out their logical implications.
Understands and critically evaluates
its sources, appropriately limits and
defines terms.

Uses irrelevant details or lacks
supporting evidence entirely. May be
unduly brief.
Contains no proper citations/footnotes. Evidence of research is insufficient for the paper size.

- Paper lacks many elements of correct formatting.

Evidence of research severely lacking and what is there is often improperly cited.

Writer uses generalizations to support
points. May use examples, but
they may be obvious or not relevant.
Often depends on unsupported
opinion or personal experience, or
assumes that evidence speaks for
itself and needs no application to the
point being discussed. Often has
lapses in logic.
Some formatting guidelines are followed.

- Paper follows designated guidelines.

- Paper is the appropriate length as described for the assignment.

Most citations/bibliography items are correct.

Uses evidence appropriately and
effectively, providing sufficient
evidence and explanation to
convince. Footnotes/bibliography in correct format.