| Criteria | 2 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Intro/Conclusion/Thesis | Thesis is unclear or missing. Introduction and conclusion are weak. | Thesis is present but lacks clarity. Introduction and conclusion are somewhat developed. | Thesis is clear but may lack complexity. Introduction and conclusion are adequately developed. | Thesis is clear and insightful. Introduction and conclusion are well-developed. | Thesis is strong, nuanced, and engaging. Introduction and conclusion are compelling. |
| Topic Sentences and Transitions | Topic sentences are unclear or missing. Transitions are choppy or absent. | Topic sentences are present but may lack clarity. Transitions are somewhat effective. | Topic sentences are clear but may lack depth. Transitions are adequately used. | Topic sentences are clear and insightful. Transitions are effective. | Topic sentences are strong, nuanced, and engaging. Transitions are seamless. |
| Evidence | Little to no relevant evidence provided. Evidence is inaccurate or irrelevant. | Some relevant evidence provided but lacks depth. Evidence may be somewhat inaccurate or irrelevant. | Relevant evidence provided but may lack thorough analysis. Evidence is mostly accurate. | Relevant evidence provided with insightful analysis. Evidence is accurate. | Rich, varied, and relevant evidence provided with thorough analysis. Evidence is accurate and effectively supports arguments. |
| Commentary/Analysis | Analysis is superficial or missing. Commentary lacks depth. | Analysis is somewhat developed but lacks insight. Commentary may be repetitive. | Analysis is adequate but may lack complexity. Commentary is mostly clear. | Analysis is insightful and well-developed. Commentary is clear and engaging. | Analysis is sophisticated and nuanced. Commentary is compelling and adds depth to the discussion. |
| Style/Vocab/Sentence Structure | Writing style is inconsistent or inappropriate. Limited vocabulary and poor sentence structure. | Writing style is somewhat consistent. Vocabulary and sentence structure are basic. | Writing style is adequate but may lack sophistication. Vocabulary and sentence structure are appropriate. | Writing style is engaging and coherent. Vocabulary and sentence structure enhance the essay. | Writing style is polished and sophisticated. Varied vocabulary and strong sentence structure enhance the essay significantly. |
| Mechanics and Coherence | Many errors in grammar, punctuation, and spelling. Lack of coherence. | Some errors in grammar, punctuation, and spelling. Coherence is somewhat lacking. | Few errors in grammar, punctuation, and spelling. Coherence is adequate. | Minor errors in grammar, punctuation, and spelling. Coherence is well-maintained. | Almost no errors in grammar, punctuation, and spelling. Coherence is strong throughout. |