Student Name:
Date:
Assignment: Interview Essay
Ideas This paper is clear and focused. Relevant evidence, examples, and details enrich the central theme and/ or support the argument.
Pts.
50
___ 1. The topic, thesis, claim, or assertion about the person interviewed is narrow and manageable.
___ 2. Assertion is supported with relevant, illustrative, accurate, and reliable: facts, reasons, incidents, examples, and
details.
___ 3. The writer seems to be writing from knowledge or experience. (Knowledge gained from interview & research).
___ 4. The reader’s questions are anticipated and answered.
___ 5. Insight—an understanding of life and a knack for picking out what is significant—is an indicator of high level
performance, though not required. (Attempt to go beyond the obvious argument.)
Voice The writer crafts the writing with an awareness and respect for the audience and the purpose for writing.
10
___ 1. The tone of the writing adds interest and is appropriate for the purpose and audience. (Academic).
___ 2. The reader feels a strong interaction with the writer. You developed a credible, persuasive persona.
___ 3. Shows why the reader needs to know this and why he or she should care.
Organization The organization enhances and showcases the central idea or theme.
70
___ 1. Organization flows smoothly; the choice of structure matches the purpose and audience.
___ 2. Paragraphing is sound and reinforces the organizational structure.
___ 3. Thoughtful transitions clearly show how ideas connect.
___ 4. Sequencing is logical and effective. (Argument builds in a logical fashion.) Pacing is well controlled; the writer
knows when to slow down and elaborate, and when to pick up the pace and move on.
___ 5. The title is original, interesting to the reader, and supports the assertion.
___ 6. A strategy is utilized to create an inviting introduction.
___ 7. A satisfying conclusion leaves the reader with a sense of closure and resolution. (Again, a strategy is used.)
Sentence Fluency Writing has an easy flow, rhythm, and cadence.
5
___ 1. Sentences construction underscores and enhances meaning. They are clear and free of sentence errors.
___ 2. Sentences vary in length, structure, and beginnings. Creative and appropriate connectives between sentences
show how each relates to, and builds upon, the one before it.
Word Choice Words convey the intended message in a precise, interesting, and natural way. The words are powerful and engaging.
___ 1.
___ 2.
___ 3.
___ 4.
Words are specific and accurate
Striking words and phrases often catch the reader's eye and linger in the reader's mind.
Language and phrasing is natural, effective, and appropriate for the audience. (College-level and convincing)
Lively verbs add energy while specific nouns and modifiers add depth.
Conventions
___ 1.
___ 2.
___ 3.
___ 4.
5
Errors tend to be so few that just minor touch-ups would get this piece ready to publish.
Spelling is generally correct, (This includes “typos”).
The punctuation is accurate, even creative, and guides the reader through the text.
Grammar and usage are correct and contribute to clarity and style.
Proofreading!
Presentation It consistently follows the MLA or other appropriate format.
20
40
___ 1. Appropriate use of fonts and font sizes (MLA 11 or 12)
___ 2. The use of white space on the page (spacing, margins, etc.). The formatting suits the purpose for writing. (MLA
double-spaced – 1in margins)
___ 3. The use of a title, side heads, page numbering, bullets, and evidence of correct use of a Style sheet (MLA)
___ 4. Effective integration of text and illustrations, charts, graphs, maps, tables, etc.
Total Points 5=Strong: shows control and skill in this trait 4=Competent: strengths outweigh the weaknesses 3= Developing: strengths and need for revision are
200
Lisa Weir/Ohara PCC, East Campus/ adapted from NREL 6 traits for WRT 101/ 6/27/2016/
about equal 2= Emerging: need for revision outweighs strengths 1=Not yet; writer not yet showing any control.
Lisa Weir/Ohara PCC, East Campus/ adapted from NREL 6 traits for WRT 101/ 6/27/2016/