CATEGORY
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4
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3
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2
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1
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I ntroduction
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Introductory paragraph clearly states subject of essay and captures reader's attention.
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Introductory paragraph states subject of essay but is not particularly inviting to the reader.
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Introductory paragraph attempts to state subject of essay but does not capture reader's attention.
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No attempt is made to state the subject of the essay in an introductory paragraph.
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S ensory Details
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Essay includes details that appeal to at least three of the five senses (taste, touch, sound, sight, smell).
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Includes details that appeal to fewer than three of the five senses.
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Includes details that appeal to only one of the five senses.
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Includes no details that appeal to one of the five senses.
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W ord Choice
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Writer uses vivid words and phrases that linger or draw pictures in the reader's mind, and the choice and placement of the words seems accurate, natural and not forced.
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Writer uses vivid words and phrases that linger or draw pictures in the reader's mind, but occasionally the words are used inaccurately or seem overdone.
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Writer uses words that communicate clearly, but the writing lacks variety, punch or flair.
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Writer uses a limited vocabulary that does not communicate strongly or capture the reader's interest. Jargon or cliches may be present and detract from the meaning.
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S imile/Metaphor/Personification
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Writer effectively uses simile, metaphor, and personification to describe the subject.
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Writer uses one example of simile, metaphor, or personification to describe the subject.
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Writer may try to use simile, metaphor, and personification but does so incorrectly.
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Writer does not include simile, metaphor, or personification in essay.
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S entence Structure (Sentence Fluency)
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All sentences are well-constructed with varied structure.
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Most sentences are well-constructed with varied structure.
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Most sentences are well-constructed but have a similar structure.
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Sentences lack structure and appear incomplete or rambling.
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G rammar, Spelling, Capitalization, & Punctuation
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There are no errors in grammar, spelling, capitalization, or punctuation. Rubric is attached to essay. Essay is completed on time.
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There are some errors; however, these errors do not distract the reader. Rubric is attached to essay. Essay is completed on time.
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There are errors that distract the reader. Rubric is attached to essay. Essay is completed on time.
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There are serious errors that interfere with the reader's understanding of the essay. Rubric is not attached to essay. Essay is completed on time.
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