VERY GOOD

GOOD

NEEDS HELP

Introduction

Interesting, focuses on the topic clearly, makes reader really want to continue reading,  very few/no grammar mistakes

Makes reader want to continue reading, leads reader into the subject, few grammar mistakes

Does not directly lead the reader into the topic, many grammar mistakes

Main Idea

Is complete, covers the material in the entire essay, is at the end of the introduction, flows well, gives readers a sense of the order your essay will follow

Is at the end of the introduction, is complete, gives the reader a sense of the order of your essay

Incomplete, does not address the topic clearly, no main idea

Supporting Point 1

Directly connects to the thesis, has its’ own main idea, flows smoothly, clear subdivisions, subdivisions explain the topic well, good examples, excellent transitions

Connects with the thesis, has its’ own main idea, subdivisions clear and supported, good transitions, uses examples

Connection with the thesis is unclear, no main idea, or confusing information, subdivisions do not clearly connect to topic, examples not closely related to topic, weak or no transitions

Supporting Point 2

Directly connects to the thesis and to support 1, has its’ own main idea, flows smoothly, clear subdivisions, subdivisions explain the topic well, good examples, excellent transitions

Connects with the thesis, with support 1,  has its’ own main idea, subdivisions clear and supported, good transitions, uses examples

Connection with the thesis is unclear, no main idea, or confusing information, subdivisions do not clearly connect to topic, examples not closely related to topic

Supporting Point 3

Directly connects to the thesis and to supports 1 and 2, has its’ own main idea, flows smoothly, clear subdivisions, subdivisions explain the topic well, good examples, excellent transitions

Connects with the thesis, and with supports 1 and 2, has its’ own main idea, subdivisions clear and supported, good transitions, uses examples

Connection with the thesis is unclear, no main idea, or confusing information, subdivisions do not clearly connect to topic, examples not closely related to topic

Conclusion

Restates the thesis, is interesting, flows well, summarizes the essay, completes the essay

Restates the thesis, is clear, summarizes main points, ties loose ends.  

Only partially restates the thesis, or not at all, Repeats the same words used before