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Essay Rubric 
Essay Rubric
Basic writing rubric for an essay to be used in an introductory writing course or with 9th graders.
Rubric Code: QX74A98
By lhall85
Ready to use
Public Rubric
Subject: English  
Type: Writing  
Grade Levels: 9-12

Powered by iRubric Essay
  Excellent

100 pts

Good

85 pts

Fair

70 pts

Needs Improvement

0 pts

Introduction
15 %

Excellent

The essay has a strong opening with an engaging attention getter and a logical progression to a strong thesis sentence.
Good

The introduction is functional, but not very engaging. It has an attention getter and a thesis statement.
Fair

The introduction is poorly developed; a thesis is included, but may be weak. The intro. may be too brief or too wordy and unorganized.
Needs Improvement

The essay does not have a full introduction. Major components are missing.
Body Paragraphs
40 %

Excellent

Each paragraph starts with a clear topic sentence that clearly relates to the thesis. Specific details and examples fully support the main ideas and are well-developed and fully explained.
Good

Each paragraph starts with a topic sentence, but may have a weak connection to the thesis. Details and examples are included, but may not be fully developed and explained.
Fair

Most paragraphs start with a topic sentence, but no clear link to the thesis is made. Some details and examples are included, but not enough to fully support the main idea.
Needs Improvement

Missing topic sentences and/or not enough supporting details and examples. Or the supporting details may be off-topic.
Organization
15 %

Excellent

The paper has a clear organizational structure. Transitions are used to effectively move the reader from point to point.
Good

The paper attempts an organizational structure, but has minor errors. Transitions are used but may not always be successful.
Fair

Organization is somewhat apparent, but weak. Student tried to write an introduction, body, and conclusion, but was only partially successful. Transitions are lacking.
Needs Improvement

No clear structure or organization apparent. Student does not have a separate introduction, body and/or conclusion. It may be written as one long paragraph.
Conclusion
15 %

Excellent

Wraps up the essay by restating the thesis, reviewing the main points, and leaving the reader thinking. The conclusion is creative and/or thoughtful.
Good

Restates thesis and main points and leaves the reader with something to think about.
Fair

Ends the essay with some final thoughts, but doesn't clearly restate thesis and/or main points. Additional information may be added. Does not end with a memorable statement.
Needs Improvement

Essay ends abruptly or the conclusion does not fit with the essay. It's off topic or confusing.
Mechanics
15 %

Excellent

Only one or two minor errors in spelling, grammar, or punctuation.
Good

A few errors (3-5) in spelling, grammar, or punctuation. These errors do not distract or prevent understanding.
Fair

Multiple errors (6-10) in spelling, grammar or punctuation that begin to make the essay difficult to read; may cause some confusion.
Needs Improvement

Several errors in spelling, grammar or punctuation. Essay is difficult to read and could be difficult to understand.




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