iRubric: In-Class Essay rubric

The introduction and thesis statement do not include what is being argued, and there is no clear stand taken.

The introduction and thesis statement contains the topic being argued, but they may not take a clear stand.

The introduction and thesis statement are fairly well developed and take a stand.

Very well developed introduction and thesis statement that names the topic and the opinion which engages the reader and creates interest.

No discernible organization. Reasons are either missing or not in any discernible order. They do not support the argument or there are obvious fallacies.

Reasons are in a discernible order, but there are not enough to effectively support the argument as presented in the thesis statement.

Reasons are in a clear. effective order and they adequately support the argument as presented in the thesis statement.

Reasons are effectively supported by details and examples that are presented in a very effective order that enhances and strengthens the argument.

There is no apparent conclusion or restating of the argument. Writing is confusing and hard to follow. Contains fragments and/or run-on sentences. The tone and purpose is inconsistent and difficult to determine. Transitions are either missing or inappropriate.

The concluding paragraph summarizes the argument based on the thesis, but it offers little to no additional support or validity for the argument. Writing is clear, but sentences may lack variety. The tone is inconsistent and word choice, while adequate, could be better. While transitions are present they do not add to the overall effectiveness of the paragraph.

The concluding paragraph closes the essay Writing is clear and sentences have varied structure. There is consistent tone and word choice is appropriate with fairly good use of transitions to guide the reader.

The concluding paragraph clearly closes the essay in a thoughtful manner and gives valid reasons in support of the argument. Writing is smooth, skillful, and coherent. Sentences are strong and expressive with varied structure. Consistent and appropriate tone and word choice is used throughout the paragraph.