| Criteria / Topics | 1 – Below Expectations | 2 – Approaching Expectations | 3 – Meeting Expectations | 4 – Exceeding Expectations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Purpose, Focus, and Organization | The essay lacks a clear purpose and organization. The focus is unclear. | The purpose, focus, and organization of the essay are somewhat clear but may lack consistency. | The essay has a clear purpose, focus, and organization that effectively guide the reader through the argument. | The purpose, focus, and organization of the essay are exceptionally clear, engaging, and effectively support the argument. |
| Evidence and Elaboration | The essay lacks sufficient evidence to support the argument. Elaboration is minimal or missing. | The essay provides some evidence to support the argument, but it may lack depth or relevance. Elaboration is limited. | The essay includes relevant evidence to support the argument with adequate elaboration to explain and connect ideas. | The essay presents compelling and varied evidence that strongly supports the argument with thorough elaboration that enhances understanding. |
| Spelling, Grammar, and Mechanics | The essay contains numerous spelling, grammar, and mechanical errors that impede understanding. | The essay has several spelling, grammar, and mechanical errors that distract from the overall quality of writing. | The essay demonstrates mostly accurate spelling, grammar, and mechanics with minor errors that do not significantly impact readability. | The essay showcases exceptional command of spelling, grammar, and mechanics with virtually no errors, enhancing the overall quality of writing. |