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| Criteria | 4 Points | 3 Points | 2 Points | 1 Point |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Focus and Organization | The essay has a clear and insightful thesis statement that fully addresses the prompt. Ideas are logically organized with smooth transitions that enhance the argument. | The essay has a clear thesis statement that addresses the prompt. Ideas are organized with some transitions that support the argument. | The essay has a thesis statement that partially addresses the prompt. Organization is attempted but may be unclear or lack transitions. | The essay lacks a clear thesis statement. Ideas are disorganized and transitions are missing or ineffective. |
| Evidence and Elaboration | The essay provides strong, relevant evidence to support the argument. Elaboration is insightful and enhances the argument. Sources are well-integrated and cited correctly. | The essay provides relevant evidence to support the argument. Elaboration is present and supports the argument. Sources are mostly integrated and cited correctly. | The essay provides some evidence, but it may be weak or not clearly connected to the argument. Elaboration is limited. Sources are inconsistently integrated or cited. | The essay provides little to no evidence to support the argument. Elaboration is minimal or absent. Sources are not integrated or cited. |
| Conventions of English Usage and Mechanics | The essay demonstrates a strong command of standard English conventions with few or no errors in grammar, punctuation, and spelling. | The essay demonstrates a good command of standard English conventions with some errors in grammar, punctuation, and spelling that do not interfere with understanding. | The essay demonstrates a partial command of standard English conventions with frequent errors in grammar, punctuation, and spelling that may interfere with understanding. | The essay demonstrates a limited command of standard English conventions with numerous errors in grammar, punctuation, and spelling that interfere with understanding. |
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