CATEGORY
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10
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8
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6
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4
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Introduction (Organization)
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The introduction is inviting, states the main topic and previews the structure of the paper.
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The introduction clearly states the main topic and previews the structure of the paper, but is not particularly inviting to the reader.
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The introduction states the main topic, but does not adequately preview the structure of the paper nor is it particularly inviting to the reader.
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There is no clear introduction of the main topic or structure of the paper.
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Flow & Rhythm (Sentence Fluency)
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All sentences sound natural and are easy-on-the-ear when read aloud. Each sentence is clear and has an obvious emphasis.
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Almost all sentences sound natural and are easy-on-the-ear when read aloud, but 1 or 2 are stiff and awkward or difficult to understand.
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Most sentences sound natural and are easy-on-the-ear when read aloud, but several are stiff and awkward or are difficult to understand.
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The sentences are difficult to read aloud because they sound awkward, are distractingly repetitive, or difficult to understand.
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Word 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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Focus on Topic (Content)
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There is one clear, well-focused topic. Main idea stands out and is supported by detailed information.
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Main idea is clear but the supporting information is general.
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Main idea is somewhat clear but there is a need for more supporting information.
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The main idea is not clear. There is a seemingly random collection of information.
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Support for Topic (Content)
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Relevant, telling, quality details give the reader important information that goes beyond the obvious or predictable.
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Supporting details and information are relevant, but one key issue or portion of the storyline is unsupported.
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Supporting details and information are relevant, but several key issues or portions of the storyline are unsupported.
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Supporting details and information are typically unclear or not related to the topic.
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Sources (Content)
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All sources used for quotes and facts are credible and cited correctly.
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All sources used for quotes and facts are credible and most are cited correctly.
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Most sources used for quotes and facts are credible and cited correctly.
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Many sources used for quotes and facts are less than credible (suspect) and/or are not cited correctly.
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Recognition of Reader (Voice)
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The reader's questions are anticipated and answered thoroughly and completely.
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The reader's questions are anticipated and answered to some extent.
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The reader is left with one or two questions. More information is needed to "fill in the blanks".
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The reader is left with several questions.
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Grammar & Spelling (Conventions)
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Writer makes no errors in grammar or spelling that distract the reader from the content.
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Writer makes 1-2 errors in grammar or spelling that distract the reader from the content.
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Writer makes 3-4 errors in grammar or spelling that distract the reader from the content.
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Writer makes more than 4 errors in grammar or spelling that distract the reader from the content.
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Transitions (Organization)
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A variety of thoughtful transitions are used. They clearly show how ideas are connected.
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Transitions clearly show how ideas are connected, but there is little variety.
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Some transitions work well; but connections between other ideas are fuzzy.
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The transitions between ideas are unclear or nonexistant.
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Accuracy of Facts (Content)
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All supportive facts are reported accurately.
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Almost all supportive facts are reported accurately.
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Most supportive facts are reported accurately.
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NO facts are reported OR most are inaccurately reported.
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