iRubric: Creative Writing rubric

Captures reader's attention from first riveting sentence, quickly establishing dramatic tension; reader can not help but continue reading.

Gets reader's attention within first paragraph, hinting at dramatic tension, drawing reader into the rest of the piece.

First sentence and paragraph lack dramatic tension necessary to draw reader into piece; may prevent reader from continuing to read.

Opening paragraph not only lacks dramatic tension, but also contains a cliche idea or image (or, worse, no image or idea).

"When?" and "Where?" answered through establishing a realistic setting appropriate for the plot and characters. Reader has vivid sense of where and when action is taking place, and why action takes place where it does.

"When?" and "Where?' answered through creating a sense of setting, though setting relies on limited descriptions; choice of setting may be in conflict with plot and character.

Reader is given limited reference to answer "When?" and "Where?", leaving questions as to why the author chose the setting in conjunction with the plot and character.

Reader is confused as to where and when the action of the story takes place. Writer fails to offer any description to answer "Where?" and "When?"

Word choice is appropriate and precise. Sensory language is used effectively to evoke three of the five senses at any given time, establishing and maintaining setting. Writing "shows"; doesn't "tell".

Word choice and language appropriate for story, though may be limited to repeated phrases or cliches; reflects development of plot, character, and setting, but relies on "telling" the story rather than "showing".

Sensory language is not used effectively, contributing to feelings of "Where is the action taking place"; senses are limited to one or two throughout; relies on "telling" the story rather than "showing".

Language is void of any sensory imagery; word choice is improper or forced--akin to dressing pets in people clothes: premeditated cuteness.