| Criteria / Topics | 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Proposed Solution | No clear solution is identified. | A solution is identified, but it is not clear or identifiable. | A solution is identified, but it is not well-articulated in the thesis statement. | A clear and identifiable solution is identified in the thesis statement. | A clear and identifiable solution is identified in the thesis statement, and it is supported with strong evidence. |
| Argument and Rationale | No justification or rationale is provided for the proposed solution. | A justification or rationale is provided, but it is not convincing or logical. | A justification or rationale is provided, but it is not well-developed or supported. | A justification or rationale is provided and it is convincing and logical. | A well-developed and supported justification or rationale is provided for the proposed solution. |
| Organization | Ideas are not organized or structured effectively. | Ideas are somewhat organized, but the structure is unclear or confusing. | Ideas are organized, but the structure could be improved for better communication. | Ideas are well-organized and structured for effective communication. | Ideas are exceptionally organized and structured for clear and effective communication. |
| Evidence & Analysis | No relevant quotes or evidence are provided to support the argument. | Some relevant quotes or evidence are provided, but they are not analyzed. | Relevant quotes or evidence are provided, but the analysis is weak or lacks depth. | Relevant quotes or evidence are provided and analyzed to support the argument. | Strong and relevant quotes or evidence are provided and thoroughly analyzed to support the argument. |
| Language Use | Language is used ineffectively and does not communicate ideas clearly. | Language is used somewhat effectively, but there are errors or inconsistencies. | Language is used effectively, but there are occasional errors or inconsistencies. | Language is used skillfully to communicate ideas clearly. | Language is used skillfully and creatively to effectively communicate ideas. |
| Cite Sources | No sources are cited. | Some sources are cited, but not consistently or correctly. | Sources are cited, but there are occasional errors or inconsistencies. | Sources are cited consistently and correctly. | Sources are cited consistently and correctly, and a variety of sources are used. |