3

2

1

Key concepts are defined

and their source identified. An issue or key idea is clearly presented.

Key concepts are defined,

but few citations are provided. Two perspectives on an issue, or key aspects of an idea, are not clearly presented.

Key concepts are not

well defined or their sources

are not acknowledged. An issue or key idea is not clearly presented.

 

3

2

1

Points made, discussion

pertains to the purpose

or issue or key idea.

Relations of paper to the

purpose of the assignment

is ambiguous.

Points made, discussion is

peripheral to or unrelated to

the purpose or issue

3

2

1

Parts are consistent, make

sense, are connected with one another; clear outline is of ideas is present.

General outline is present,

but not all parts are connected to main idea; overlap exists between sections..

Inconsistencies, internal

contradictions apparent;

connections not clear; outline of ideas not apparent.

3

2

1

Ideas are fully developed;

no obvious areas ignored,

omitted; encompasses the

full picture, free of

systematic bias.

Most key ideas are

presented; difference

perspectives are mentioned,

but no attempt to develop

more than one perspective.

Addresses only some parts;

obvious areas omitted

creating a partial, biased

perspective; no attempt to

balance perspectives.

3

2

1

Analysis, description moves

beyond surface; thoughtful,

reflective analysis, explanations,

elaborations, and assessments.

Analysis, explanations,

elaborations, assessments,

borrowed intact from

others and are routine,

typical.

Analysis, explanations,

elaborations, assessments

not present where needed

and when present, are meager.

3

2

1

Key literature on the topic included; syllabus readings, foundational and

current literature cited.

Some key literature included; syllabus readings are primary source of ideas; foundational or current literature not well represented.               

3

2

1

Clear outline of ideas is

apparent; headings and

subheadings are used

effectively; if required, a well organized concept map is available.

Organization is depicted by

headings and subheadings, 

but the content in sections

overlaps; if required, the concept map lacks a clear hierarchy.

Organization is weak; few

headings and subheadings

to guide reading; if required, no concept map.

Technical aspects of punctuation,

spelling, grammar and English

style are consistently used

correctly; citation style is

consistently used correctly.

Some errors in punctuation,

spelling, grammar, and

English style detract from

the clarity of the ideas

presented. Bibliographic

style not consistent.

Consistent errors in spelling,

punctuation, grammar, or

other aspects of English style

detract from clear presentation

of the topic. Standard

bibliographic style not used.