Introduction

Title; Objective; Orientation to Reader; Topic

Weight: 5% of paper grade

Score (1, 2, 3, 4, or 5) X 1 =

• The writer introduces the topic and its relevance to (1) the discipline. The introduction lays groundwork for the direction of the paper. The introduction lays groundwork for the direction of the paper.

b. Main idea stands along with details.

c. The title is appropriate and adequately describes the topic.

Body

Structure; flow; Organization and Development

Weight: 20% of paper

Score (1, 2, 3, 4, or 5) X 4 =

a. The paper flows from general ideas to specific conclusions and/or vice-versa. All sections follow a logical order. Transitions tie together sections as well as individual paragraphs.

b. Ideas are clear, original, and focused. Main idea stands along with details.

c. Sufficient information included. Information clearly relates to the main theme. It includes several supporting details and/or examples.

d. Provides a clear and compelling theme.

e. Sentences clearly relate to the paragraph’s main idea.

f. Paragraphs clearly and effectively relate to and support the theme.

g. Writer provides examples and quotes that answer the reader’s questions and adds depth to the writer’s ideas.

Content

Weaving together literature through synthesis via thematic categories that provide exploration/explanation

Weight: 40% of paper grade

Score: (1, 2, 3, 4, or 5) X 8 =

a. The writer covers the appropriate content in detail without being redundant.

b. The writer cites sources when specific statements are made.

c. The significance of quotes, when used, is apparent.

d. The length is appropriate.

e. Ideas are clear, original, and focused. Main idea stands out, along with details.

f. Ideas in the paper are compelling, even original; they are not self-evident.

Clarity and correctness of the Writing

Weight: 15% of paper grade

Score: (1, 2, 3, 4, or 5) X 3 =

a. The writing is clear and concise.

b. There are no (or very few) mistakes in grammar, spelling, and/or punctuation.

c. The writing does not ramble; the paper is carefully written and edited.

Conclusions

Synthesis of ideas and culminating with a clear position.

Weight: 10% of paper grade

Score: (1, 2, 3, 4, or 5) X 2 =

a. The writer makes succinct and precise conclusions based on the references.

b. Insights into the problem/topic are appropriate.

c. Conclusions are strongly supported within the paper.

Sources & Citations & Proper APA Format

Undergraduate: 10%

Score: (1, 2, 3, 4, or 5) X 2 =

a. The writer includes all necessary citations in the body of the paper.

b. The references in the list match the in-text citations and all are properly cited in APA style.

c. Numerous sources are cited. All sources are accurately documented.

d. Accurately adheres to APA style in formatting, organization, and construction.

e. There is consistent use of non-discriminatory language.

f. The majority of sources are scholarly and cited correctly in both text and reference list.

g. Personal opinions are stated succinctly in the conclusion.