| Letter Format and Organization |
The letter includes a clear greeting, well-organized body paragraphs, and a thoughtful closing. Ideas flow logically and are easy to follow. |
The letter includes a greeting, body paragraphs, and a closing. Most ideas are organized and easy to follow. |
The letter is missing one of the following: greeting, body paragraphs, or closing. Ideas are somewhat organized but may be hard to follow at times. |
The letter is missing more than one of the following: greeting, body paragraphs, or closing. Ideas are disorganized and hard to follow. |
| Introduction and Claim |
The introduction clearly states the topic and opinion. The claim is strong and easy to understand, making the writer’s belief clear. |
The introduction states the topic and opinion. The claim is understandable but could be stronger. |
The introduction is unclear or missing. The claim is weak and hard to understand. |
The introduction and claim are missing or very unclear. |
| Supporting Reasons |
Provides clear and convincing reasons and examples. Effectively addresses opposing views and explains why the writer’s opinion is better. |
Provides clear reasons and examples. Mentions opposing views but does not fully explain why the writer’s opinion is better. |
Provides some reasons and examples, but they may be unclear or not convincing. Opposing views are not addressed. |
Provides few or no reasons and examples. Opposing views are not addressed. |
| Counterargument |
Thoroughly discusses what others might say and clearly explains why the writer’s opinion is stronger. |
Mentions what others might say and explains why the writer’s opinion is stronger. |
Briefly mentions what others might say but does not explain why the writer’s opinion is stronger. |
Does not mention what others might say or explain why the writer’s opinion is stronger. |
| Grammar and Sentences |
Uses correct grammar and punctuation consistently. Sentences are clear and varied, making the writing interesting. Uses Bold words or All CAPS effectively. |
Uses correct grammar and punctuation most of the time. Sentences are mostly clear with some variety. |
Uses correct grammar and punctuation some of the time. Sentences are sometimes unclear and lack variety. |
Uses incorrect grammar and punctuation frequently. Sentences are unclear and lack variety. |
