| Effectively introduces a topic |
No clear introduction of the topic. |
Attempts to introduce the topic but lacks clarity. |
Introduces the topic clearly but lacks engaging elements. |
Introduces the topic clearly and engagingly. |
| Effectively develops the topic with multiple facts, definitions, concrete details, quotations, or other information and examples related to the topic |
No facts, definitions, or details provided. |
Minimal facts and details; lacks depth. |
Provides some relevant facts and details. |
Provides multiple relevant facts, definitions, and details. |
| Groups related ideas together to give some organization to the writing |
No organization of ideas. |
Ideas are minimally grouped; lacks coherence. |
Ideas are grouped but may lack logical flow. |
Ideas are well-organized and logically grouped. |
| Effectively uses linking words and phrases to connect ideas within categories of information |
No linking words or phrases used. |
Few linking words or phrases; connections are unclear. |
Uses some linking words and phrases to connect ideas. |
Effectively uses a variety of linking words and phrases. |
| Uses precise language and domain‐specific vocabulary to explain the topic |
Language is vague and lacks specificity. |
Minimal use of precise language and vocabulary. |
Uses some precise language and domain-specific vocabulary. |
Consistently uses precise language and domain-specific vocabulary. |
| Provides a strong concluding statement or section related to the information or explanation presented |
No conclusion provided. |
Conclusion is weak or unrelated to the topic. |
Provides a conclusion related to the topic. |
Provides a strong and relevant conclusion. |
| Has clear and complete sentence structure, with appropriate range and variety |
Sentences are incomplete or unclear. |
Limited sentence variety; some sentences unclear. |
Sentences are mostly clear with some variety. |
Sentences are clear and varied in structure. |
| Shows knowledge of language and its conventions when writing |
Frequent errors in language conventions. |
Some errors in language conventions that may interfere with meaning. |
Few errors in language conventions; meaning is clear. |
Consistently uses correct language conventions. |
