The 8-9 essay:
· contains sophisticated thesis which guides development of argument
throughout the essay.
· demonstrates well-reasoned interpretation and analysis and reaches, firm, fully
supported conclusions.
· provides abundant, appropriate, and accurate specifics, deals with all aspects of
prompt.
· communicates clearly and effectively, using precise language and cohesive
organization.
· may contain minor errors.
The 5-7 essay:
· contains a clear thesis which sets the direction for the essay; connection between
thesis and evidence may not be clearly and directly made.
· supports thesis with some factual information.
· analysis may be limited or superficial.
· limited understanding of complexity; in questions requiring balance, may give
more attention to one part of the question.
· may contain errors that do not detract from overall essay/argument.
The 2-4 essay:
· thesis may be confused or undeveloped, or lacks a thesis.
· information provided is minimal, or lacks supporting information, or contains
information that is not relevant to the question.
· may not connect aspects of the topic, or ignores complexity, may concentrate on
only one part of the question, or discuss areas in a general and/or superficial
way.
· may contain major errors.
The 0-1 essay:
· incompetent response
· may simply paraphrase or restate the question
· little or no understanding of the question