| Criteria | 1 – Below Standard | 2 – Approaching Standard | 3 – Meeting Standard | 4 – Exceeding Standard |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Topic Sentence | The paragraph does not have a clear topic sentence. | The topic sentence is unclear or does not effectively introduce the main idea of the paragraph. | The topic sentence introduces the main idea of the paragraph, but it could be more specific or engaging. | The topic sentence clearly and effectively introduces the main idea of the paragraph in a specific and engaging way. |
| Textual Evidence | No textual evidence is provided to support the main idea. | Some textual evidence is provided, but it is not relevant or does not effectively support the main idea. | Textual evidence is provided to support the main idea, but it could be more specific or well-chosen. | Textual evidence is clearly and effectively chosen to support the main idea, and it is integrated smoothly into the paragraph. |
| Summary | The paragraph does not effectively summarize the main points or events from the text. | The summary is incomplete or does not accurately capture the main points or events from the text. | The summary accurately captures the main points or events from the text, but it could be more detailed or organized. | The summary effectively and accurately captures the main points or events from the text in a detailed and organized manner. |
| Analysis | No analysis or interpretation of the text is provided. | Some analysis or interpretation of the text is provided, but it is not well-developed or supported. | The analysis of the text is clear and supported by evidence, but it could be more insightful or thorough. | The analysis of the text is insightful, thorough, and supported by strong evidence and examples. |
| Conclusion Sentence | The paragraph does not have a clear conclusion sentence. | The conclusion sentence is unclear or does not effectively summarize the main idea of the paragraph. | The conclusion sentence summarizes the main idea of the paragraph, but it could be more impactful or memorable. | The conclusion sentence effectively and memorably summarizes the main idea of the paragraph. |
| Conventions/Vary Sentences | The paragraph contains numerous errors in grammar, punctuation, and spelling. Sentences are repetitive and lack variety. | The paragraph contains some errors in grammar, punctuation, and spelling. Sentences are somewhat repetitive and lack variety. | The paragraph demonstrates basic control of grammar, punctuation, and spelling. Sentences show some variety, but could be more varied and engaging. | The paragraph demonstrates strong control of grammar, punctuation, and spelling. Sentences show variety and are engaging to read. |