Trait	OUTSTANDING	ACCEPTABLE	UNACCEPTABLE
Introduction	I can't wait to read your essay! 15	This could be interesting. 10	Your introduction doesn't capture my attention. 4
Focus	Thesis statement is evident and point of view is consistent throughout. 10	Thesis statement is unoriginal, but clearly stated; inconsistent point of view. 6	What is your thesis statement and point of view? 2
Development	Each body paragraph includes supportive detail that develops the topic of each paragraph. 15	Body paragraphs only mildly supportive of the overall topic of the paper. 7	Body paragraphs are weakly developed and do not support the topic of the paper. 0
Organization	Very well organized and focused; uses effective leads and conclusions; structure reinforces tone and content. 15	Opening and ending weak, stays on topic, some focus. 10	Lack of development, sometime digresses, has little or not organization or paragraphing. 5
Vivid Verbs and Sensory Details	Your strong, active verbs create vivid imagery in your reader's mind. No dull linking verbs appear. Vivid, concrete word choices enhance the paper. 15	Only a few dull linking verbs mar your essay. You have written mostly strong, active verbs. You have used several non-specific words. 10	Many dull/linking verbs rob your essay of the sharpness needed. Your details are general. 4
Comparison	You have used at least one strong, effective comparison. 5	Your comparison is ineffective or distracting, or you have used too many unrelated comparisons. 3	You have written no comparisons. 0
Style	Clearly demonstrates an awareness of audience and purpose. 5	Somewhat demonstrates an awareness of audience and purpose. 3	Does not demonstrate an awareness of audience and purpose. 0
Sentence Structure	Sentences are complex and employ a variety of writing techniques. 10	A few sentences are complex. 5	Sentence structure is simple. 1
Conclusion	Your conclusion neatly wraps up your narrative. 5	You have a conclusion, but it's repetitive. 3	This is the end???? 0
Neatness	Essay is neatly written in pen or typed and easy to read. 5	Could be neater, but readable. 3	Is this English? 0