FOCUS

CONTENT

ORGANIZATION

STYLE

CONVENTIONS

The single controlling point made with an awareness of task (mode) about a specific topic.

The presence of ideas developed through facts, examples, anecdotes, details, opinions, statistics, reasons and/or explanations.

The order developed and sustained within and across paragraphs using transitional devices including introduction and conclusion.

The choice, use and arrangement of words and sentence structures that create tone and voice.

The use of grammar, mechanics, spelling, usage and sentence formation.

4

Sharp, distinct controlling point made about a single topic with evident awareness of task (mode)

Substantial, specific and/or illustrative content demonstrating strong development and sophisticated ideas

Sophisticated arrangement of content with evident and/or subtle transitions

Precise, illustrative use of a variety of words and sentence structures to create consistent writer’s voice and tone appropriate to audience

Evident control of grammar, mechanics, spelling, usage and sentence formation

3

Apparent point made about a single topic with sufficient awareness of task (mode)

Sufficiently developed content with adequate elaboration or explanation

Functional arrangement of content that sustains a logical order with some evidence of transitions

Generic use of a variety of words and sentence structures that may or may not create writer’s voice and tone appropriate to audience

Sufficient control of grammar, mechanics, spelling, usage and sentence formation

2

No apparent point but evidence of a specific topic

Limited content with inadequate elaboration or explanation

Confused or inconsistent arrangement of content with or without attempts at transition

Limited word choice and control of sentence structures that inhibit voice and tone

Limited control of grammar, mechanics, spelling, usage and sentence formation

1

Minimal evidence of a topic

Superficial and/or minimal content

Minimal control of content arrangement

Minimal variety in word choice and minimal control of sentence structures

Minimal control of grammar, mechanics, spelling, usage and sentence formation

• Is incoherent; i.e., words are legible but syntax is so garbled that response makes no sense

• Is insufficient; i.e., does not include enough to assess domains adequately

• Is a blank paper