Organization and Reasoning
35% of total grade
Meets or Exceeds Expectations
Clear introduction and conclusion. The writing is logical, orderly, internally consistent, and well developed. Ideas are well synthesized. Topic, ideas and arguments are clearly stated for the intended audience. Shows planning and preparation.
85 – 100%
Approaching Expectations
The writing is logical and orderly. Effort is made to synthesize ideas. Ideas and explanations are supported by evidence. Topic, ideas and arguments are mostly clear but lack definite focus and consistency. Some effort in planning and preparation is evident.
70 – 84.99%
Does Not Meet Expectations
Writing is illogical, disordered, and without a professional tone. Inferences are unsupported by evidence. Topic, ideas, and argument are not stated. Poor or lack of introduction/ conclusion. Poor effort at synthesizing ideas from different sources. A lack of effort is apparent.
0 – 69.99%
Content
45% of total grade
Meets or Exceeds Expectations
Work demonstrates a theoretical and applied understanding of the topic. Demonstrates a synthesis of ideas and concepts. References are used appropriately to support ideas.
85 – 100%
Approaching Expectations
Work demonstrates a basic operational understanding of the topic and requested content details. Poor effort at synthesizing ideas from different sources.
70 – 84.99%
Does Not Meet Expectations
Work demonstrates a little understanding of the topic and requested content details. Poor effort at synthesizing ideas from different sources.
0 – 69.99%
Paper Mechanics
20% of total grade
Meets or Exceeds Expectations
Scholarly style. Appreciation to reader’s perspective is obvious. Quotations and paraphrasing are minimal and well integrated with original writing. Proper APA style. No spelling/grammar/ punctuation errors. Professional tone. Appropriate selection and use of references.
85 – 100%
Approaching Expectations
Shows awareness of reader’s perspective. Occasional quotations and paraphrasing that are integrated in original writing. Minor errors in APA style. Few spelling/grammar/ punctuation errors. Most references are appropriate at this level.
70 – 84.99%
Does Not Meet Expectations
Informal writing style with an unprofessional tone. Lacks awareness of reader’s perspective. Overuse of quotations and paraphrasing. Major errors in APA style. Many spelling/grammar/punctuation errors. References not appropriate to this level of writing.
0 – 69.99%