| Criteria / Topics | Beginning (1 point) | Developing (2 points) | Proficient (3 points) | Exemplary (4 points) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Focus/Structure | The essay lacks a clear claim and arguments. The structure is disorganized and difficult to follow. | The essay has a somewhat clear claim and arguments, but the focus and structure could be improved. | The essay has a clear claim and arguments. The focus and structure are mostly effective. | The essay has a strong and compelling claim with well-developed arguments. The focus and structure are clear and effective. |
| Introduction | The introduction is weak and does not effectively engage the reader. | The introduction provides some background information, but it could be more engaging. | The introduction effectively introduces the topic and engages the reader. | The introduction effectively engages the reader with a strong hook and clearly introduces the topic, claim, and purpose of the essay. |
| Evidence | The essay lacks sufficient evidence to support the arguments. | The essay provides some evidence, but it could be more relevant and convincing. | The essay provides adequate evidence that supports the arguments. | The essay provides strong and relevant evidence to support each argument. The evidence is specific, well-explained, and effectively supports the claim. |
| Conclusion | The conclusion is weak and does not effectively summarize the main points. | The conclusion somewhat summarizes the main points, but it could be more impactful. | The conclusion effectively summarizes the main points and provides a closing statement. | The conclusion effectively summarizes the main points, restates the claim, and provides a strong closing statement that leaves a lasting |
| Style (Language choice & conventions) | The essay contains numerous errors in grammar, punctuation, and spelling. The language is unclear and lacks variety. | The essay contains some errors in grammar, punctuation, and spelling. The language is somewhat clear and shows some variety. | The essay demonstrates mostly correct grammar, punctuation, and spelling. The language is clear and shows some variety. | The essay demonstrates excellent grammar, punctuation, and spelling. The language is clear, precise, and shows a wide variety of sentence structures. |