| Criteria | 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Introduction | Does not include a TAG sentence or a summary in SWBST format | Includes either a TAG sentence or a summary in SWBST format | Includes a TAG sentence and a summary in SWBST format | Includes a TAG sentence, a summary in SWBST format, but claim is unclear | Includes a TAG sentence, a summary in SWBST format, and a clear claim |
| Body Paragraph | Does not transition into a topic sentence or provide reasons and quotes | Transitions into a topic sentence but provides only one reason and quote | Transitions into a topic sentence, provides two reasons and quotes, but lacks explanation | Transitions into a topic sentence, provides two reasons and quotes, with some explanation | Transitions into a topic sentence, provides two reasons and quotes, with thorough explanation and use of transition words |
| Grammar and Mechanics | Contains numerous grammatical errors and lacks appropriate mechanics | Contains several grammatical errors and inconsistent mechanics | Contains some grammatical errors and basic mechanics | Contains few grammatical errors and mostly appropriate mechanics | Contains minimal grammatical errors and strong mechanics appropriate for grade level |