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| Criteria | 4 Points | 3 Points | 2 Points | 1 Point |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Introductory Section | Presents a clear, precise, and knowledgeable claim that effectively sets the stage for the argument. | Presents a clear claim but lacks precision or depth in setting up the argument. | Presents a claim that is unclear or lacks knowledge, making the argument difficult to follow. | Fails to present a clear claim, making the argument unfocused or confusing. |
| Logical Sequence of Ideas | Ideas are presented in a logical, coherent order that enhances the argument. | Ideas are mostly logical and coherent, but some parts may be slightly disjointed. | Ideas are somewhat logical but lack coherence, leading to confusion. | Ideas are presented in a disorganized manner, making the argument difficult to follow. |
| Concluding Section | Provides a strong conclusion that logically follows from and supports the argument. | Provides a conclusion that follows from the argument but lacks strength or clarity. | Provides a weak conclusion that does not clearly follow from the argument. | Fails to provide a conclusion, or the conclusion does not support the argument. |
| Evidence and Support | Supplies relevant, thorough evidence to support the claim and reasons. | Supplies relevant evidence but lacks thoroughness in supporting the claim. | Supplies some evidence, but it is not always relevant or thorough. | Fails to supply relevant evidence to support the claim. |
| References to Thoreau | Includes at least two relevant references to Thoreau’s ideas that enhance the argument. | Includes two references to Thoreau’s ideas, but they may not fully enhance the argument. | Includes one reference to Thoreau’s ideas, but it is not well integrated. | Fails to include references to Thoreau’s ideas. |
| Counterclaim Response | Effectively responds to the counterclaim with relevant evidence and reasons. | Responds to the counterclaim but lacks depth or relevance in evidence and reasons. | Attempts to respond to the counterclaim but lacks clarity or relevance. | Fails to respond to the counterclaim. |
| Connection of Ideas | Uses a variety of words, phrases, and clauses to effectively connect ideas. | Uses some words, phrases, and clauses to connect ideas, but lacks variety. | Attempts to connect ideas, but lacks clarity or variety in language. | Fails to use language to connect ideas effectively. |
| Appropriate Tone | Maintains a tone that is consistently appropriate for the audience. | Maintains a mostly appropriate tone, with minor lapses. | Inconsistently maintains an appropriate tone for the audience. | Fails to maintain an appropriate tone for the audience. |
| Spelling, Grammar, and Punctuation | Uses correct spelling, grammar, and punctuation throughout. | Mostly uses correct spelling, grammar, and punctuation, with minor errors. | Contains frequent errors in spelling, grammar, and punctuation. | Contains numerous errors in spelling, grammar, and punctuation that hinder understanding. |
| Elements of a Strong Speech | Includes all elements of a strong speech, with clear organization, reasoning, and tone. | Includes most elements of a strong speech, but some may be underdeveloped. | Includes some elements of a strong speech, but lacks clarity or development. | Fails to include key elements of a strong speech. |
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