One-Paragraph Essay Rubric

CATEGORY	1	2	3	4
Penmanship (Conventions)	Many words are unreadable OR there are several distracting corrections.	The writing is generally readable, but the reader has to exert quite a bit of effort to figure out some of the words.	Paper is neatly written or typed with 1 or 2 distracting corrections (e.g., dark cross-outs; bumpy white-out, words written over).	Paper is neatly written or typed with no distracting corrections.
Grammar & Spelling (Conventions)	Writer makes more than 4 errors in grammar or spelling that distract the reader from the content.	Writer makes 3-4 errors in grammar or spelling that distract the reader from the content.	Writer makes 1-2 errors in grammar or spelling that distract the reader from the content.	Writer makes no errors in grammar or spelling that distract the reader from the content.
Word Choice	Writer uses a limited vocabulary that does not communicate strongly or captures the reader's interest. Jargon or clichés may be present and detract from the meaning.	Writer uses words that communicate clearly, but the writing lacks variety, punch or flair.	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.	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.
Capitalization & Punctuation (Conventions)	Writer makes several errors in capitalization and/or punctuation that catch the reader's attention and greatly interrupt the flow.	Writer makes a few errors in capitalization and/or punctuation that catch the reader's attention and interrupt the flow.	Writer makes 1 or 2 errors in capitalization or punctuation, but the paper is still easy to read.	Writer makes no errors in capitalization or punctuation, so the paper is exceptionally easy to read.
Conclusion (Organization)	There is no clear conclusion, the paper just ends.	The conclusion is recognizable, but does not tie up several loose ends.	The conclusion is recognizable and ties up almost all the loose ends.	The conclusion is strong and leaves the reader with a feeling that they understand what the writer is "getting at."
Focus on Topic (Content)	The main idea is not clear. There is a seemingly random collection of information.	Main idea is somewhat clear but there is a need for more supporting information.	Main idea is clear but the supporting information is general.	There is one clear, well-focused topic. Main idea stands out and is supported by detailed information.
Support for Topic (Content)	Supporting details and information are typically unclear or not related to the topic.	Supporting details and information are relevant, but several key issues or portions of the storyline are unsupported.	Supporting details and information are relevant, but one key issue or portion of the storyline is unsupported.	Relevant, telling, quality details give the reader important information that goes beyond the obvious or predictable.
Introduction (Organization)	There is no clear introduction of the main idea or details.	The introduction states the main topic, but does not clearly state details nor is it particularly inviting to the reader.	The introduction clearly states the main idea and 2 details about the topic, but it is not particularly inviting to the reader.	The introduction is inviting to the reader. It clearly states the main idea and 2 details about the topic.