A= Excellent performance. This paper is
clear, focused and interesting. The writing flows. There is an abundance
of detail that the writer has carefully chosen to contribute to the reader�s
understanding of the topic. The paper is well organized and well crafted, with
the writer never losing focus on what is important for the reader. There is an
insightful treatment of the writer�s observations and thoughts about the
subject as well as consideration of other�s ideas and theories. Analytical
elements are sharply focused and rigorously developed. Critical thinking is
keen.
Key words:
Insightful� � Elaborated� � Well-crafted
The difference between and �A� paper and a �B� paper is that an �A�
paper is more elaborate and thoughtful. The writer has taken theory and
principles and applied them in new or thoughtful ways. The analysis uses both
theoretical bases and distinctive tools. The �A� paper is better crafted, with
the writer using sentence structure, organization, language and proper
mechanics (grammar and spelling) to enhance and deliver the ideas. The �A�
writer generally spends enough time to carefully include details that focus the
reader�s attention while the �B� writer isn�t as careful in choosing details
that lead the reader and expand understanding.
B= Above average performance. The paper is
purposeful and well written, but there is a certain lack of depth or rigor in
the way the writer develops the ideas. The writer has applied theory and
principles appropriately. Although the writer has adequately addressed the
topic, it is not elaborated. Analytical elements are less sharply defined, and
critical thinking not so rigorous. A �B� paper is less insightful and
elaborated than an �A,� but it is more focused and developed than a �C� paper.
The mechanics are less polished than an �A� paper.
Key words:
Developed ideas � Comfortable communication � Moderately well crafted
The difference between a �B� paper and a �C� paper is that the �B�
paper is more developed and focused. The �B� writer addresses the topic, and
the �C� writer does too. However, the �C� writer may either bog down in details
or serve up general statements and not provide enough detail to support the
reader�s understanding except in a superficial way. The �C� paper is not as
purposefully written toward an end as the �B� and �A� papers are.
C= Average performance.� Accomplishes only the minimum requirements.
�C� papers do not explore the topic with any real depth or sense of importance.
Instead, the paper remains rather on the surface, even though the reader can
understand the ideas. There is no real attempt to link theory to practice. The
writer may go in two ways: almost getting lost in a listing of details,
including some unimportant ones, without any real sense of larger purpose; or
giving general statements without enough supporting detail. Critical thinking
is weak, and analysis generalized. The reader may feel a bit unsatisfied after
finishing the paper because the writer has not focused the paper toward the
conclusion. Errors in mechanics are more numerous or more significant than a
�B� paper.
�
D= Below average performance. The writer has
attempted to write about the topic. The writing falls short because the writer
does not carefully choose details to inform the reader. Even though the reader
can see the significance of the ideas, there is not enough detail to inform the
reader adequately. Vague analysis and a lack of critical thinking make weak
arguments. The writer�s control of the tools of writing may be so weak that the
text is difficult for the reader to follow.
Key words:
Under-developed � Sparse communication � Errors interfere with meaning
F= Below minimal standard.