iRubric: Literary Analysis of a Children's Book Essay rubric

Very well-developed introduction with a clear thesis statement
that introduces the topic and makes a central point about it. Logical progression through the paragraph and sound critical thinking.

Introduction contains a thesis statement.
The thesis creates interest and is fairly well developed. But while it contains accurate and complete information regarding the topic being described, it is not very engaging.

Ineffective opening.
Thesis is misleading, hard to find, or does not present a compelling argument for the description.

The introduction does not contain a thesis statement. It does not introduce the central theme of the essay.

writing reflects analytical thinking; clear reasoning present; inferential ideas present; balances text evidence/events and commentary well; student engaged in writing process;

writing does reflect some critical, analytical understanding of the literary text; inconsistent; more development of commentary needed; some imbalance of textual evidence;

little critical/analysis of the literary text; essay lacks focus; little to none literary evidence present; too much summary; vague statements,

No literary analysis provided, fail to fulfill requirements for essay; little to no understanding of the text.

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

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

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

The overall presentation of the essay displays a lack of proofreading and attention to detail. While the essay MIGHT be readable, it is uncomfortable and unprofessional.

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