The Library of Congress | |
Point Value | content | Organization | Style | Mechanics |
---|---|---|---|---|
4 | Sharp, focused, relevant details; insightful, fully developed ideas; balanced, controlled. |
Logical order; good introduction; relevant details; smooth transitions; good pace; paragraphing; solid ending. |
Original, expressive, engaging; good word choice; fresh, flowing. |
Grammar, capitalization, punctuation, usage, spelling, paragraphing
effectively used; mechanics reinforce organization and structure; paper long enough to make point. |
3 | Adequate focus; superficial ideas, lack of original thought; control is lacking |
Introduction and conclusion evident; connections seem forced |
Some precision and variety in vocabulary; functional, routine manner; lack of detail; use of clichés; lack of energy. |
Weaknesses begin to impair writing; punctuation, spelling, etc. may be incorrect; paper too long or too short. |
2 | Confused focus; limited information; stereotyped thinking; boring. |
Writing lacks direction; fuzzy connections; confusing or irrelevant details; purpose unclear; paper too short or too long. |
Uninvolved writer; flat, lifeless writing; reader is not moved; reliance on clichés; fuzzy imagery; monotonous patterns; awkward sentences. |
Numerous errors; text difficult to read; extensive editing required; non-standard English used. |
1 | No focus; no information; banal thinking; no point |
No direction; no connections; no details; purpose unclear; paper much too short or much too long. |
Pro-forma writer; flat, barren writing; reader would rather be elsewhere; reliance on clichés; no imagery; insipid patterns; confusing sentences. |
Uncounted errors; text virtually unreadable; massive editing required; non-standard English used. |
*From Culbertson with major modifications
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Last updated 09/26/2002 |