Grading Criteria for Written Assignments

  1. Clear thesis statement and preview or introduction
  2. Clearly developed arguments that support the thesis
  3. Use of relevant evidence (both the quantity AND quality of the source evidence are essential)
  4. Clear organization, sentence structure, transitions
  5. Proper form and style (this includes the mechanics of grammar, punctuation, etc.)
  • An "A" paper shows excellent command of all five aspects with few distracting errors in style.
  • A "B" paper satisfies points 1-4, but the form and style will sometimes distract the reader's attention.
  • A "C" paper meets the requirements of points 1-3, but its organization and style leave the reader confused about the intent and/or direction of the argument.
  • A "D" paper is a "C" that does not use enough evidence (or relies on inappropriate evidence) to support the thesis.
  • An "F" paper is seriously flawed and lacks a developed argument

For the complete rubric see here.

NB: All grades above "F" demand an excellent command of points 1-2. We shall, therefore, focus our attention on these areas. This is a hierarchical list so concentrate on the thesis.

Informal writing assignments, if pertinent to your class, will be assessed with a +/S/U scale. The “S” designation will represent satisfactory completion of the assignment pertinent to the goals and progress of the course. That is, an “S” in the first week will earn a “U” if the same quality of assignment is submitted the last week—I will expect more as we learn more about proper writing.