iRubric: Rogerian Argument Essay rubric

Each paragraph contains a clearly focused topic sentence that relates to the thesis statement.

The opposing sides' claims and reasons are presented first in neutral and empathetic language with enough details and examples to show a complete understanding of the oppositions' arguments.

Reasons for the argument are clearly stated, and there are enough research to support the argument effectively and thoroughly.

Each paragraph contains a topic sentence related to the thesis statement.

The opposing sides' claims and reasons are presented first in somewhat neutral and empathetic language.

Reasons for the argument are stated and there are enough details and examples to support/research the argument adequately and logically.

But ONE paragraph may be missing RESEARCH.

Each paragraph contains a topic sentence but the relationship to the thesis is not clearly evident in each one.

The opposing sides' arguments are not presented first and there is little attempt to be empathetic when presenting them.

Reasons for the argument are stated, but there are few concrete and specific details or NO RESEARCH/examples to support the argument adequately or logically.

Each paragraph does not contain a topic sentence.

The opposing argument is not given adequate attention. The Rogerian format is not followed.

Reasons for the argument are not stated, or there are obvious fallacies that contradict the details and examples. Perhaps the argument is an unsupported rant.

The claim used works well with the Rogerian style of argument.

The claim used works well with the Rogerian style of argument but the writer is somewhat inconsistent with its use throughout the essay.

The claim used does not work well with the Rogerian style.

Writer uses many types of claims to make the argument.

Examples are used effectively, without going over board into emotionalism. Also, if warranted provides a call to action. Examples and details are in a very effective order that enhances and strengthens the argument as presented in the thesis statement.

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

Examples/details are in a discernible order, but there are not enough to effectively support the argument as presented in the thesis statement OR it borders on emotionalism, thereby turning off the audience.

Pathos is too emotional and has no discernible organization. Reasons are either missing or not in any discernible order. They do not support the argument or there are obvious fallacies in the proposed logic.

The sources used are all highly credible and are sufficient to add convincing support.
Most of the sources are peer-reviewed or cite their sources.

The credibility of each source adds persuasive support to the argument.

The sources used are credible for the most part.The sources used are sufficient to provide convincing support.
At least two of the sources are peer-reviewed or cite their sources.

The credibility of most of the sources add to the persuasiveness of the essay.

With one or two exceptions, the sources are generally of low credibility and do not add much to the persuasiveness of the essay.
There are not enough credible sources used to provide convincing support.

The sources are either not credible or have low credibility. They add nothing in the way of support to the essay.
The author may use only one or two sources or none.

No errors in punctuation, spelling, grammar, or capitalization.

A few minor errors in punctuation, spelling, grammar, or capitalization, but they do not detract from the overall meaning and effectiveness of the paragraph.

A few errors in punctuation, grammar, spelling, and capitalization that, while distracting, the meaning and intent of the paragraph can still be discerned.

Distracting and major errors in grammar, punctuation, spelling, and capitalization.