iRubric: How-to Essay rubric

The introduction contains a clearly stated topic sentence (in a paragraph); the body fully and clearly explains the steps involved in doing or making something; the conclusion effectively ends the writing with the last step and encourages the reader to try.

The introduction contains a topic sentence (in a paragraph); the body explains the steps involved in doing or making something; the conclusion presents the last step or another logical ending.

The introduction contains a topic sentence (in a paragraph), but the sentence may be unclear, imprecise, or undeveloped; the body explains only some of the steps involved in doing or making something; the conclusion does not present the last step or any other logical reflection on the process.

The introduction lacks a topic sentence (in a paragraph); the body does not break the process into steps; the conclusion is missing or repetitive.

There are few or no errors in mechanics, usage, grammar, or spelling.

There are some errors in mechanics, usage, grammar, or spelling.

Errors in mechanics, usage, grammar, or spelling interfere with the audience's understanding of the process.

Serious and numerous errors in mechanics, usage, grammar, or spelling block the audience's understanding of the process.

Graphic organizer or outline has been completed and shows clear, logical, relationships between all topics and subtopics.

Graphic organizer or outline has been completed and shows clear, logical, relationships between most topics and subtopics.

Graphic organizer or outline has been started and includes some topics and subtopics.

Graphic organizer or outline has not been attempted.