Synthesis of Two Texts Essay
ENGL&101 – ENGLISH COMPOSITION I
Excellent
3.5-4.0
High
2.5-3.4
Average
1.5-2.4
Minimum
0.7-1.4
IDEAS (What you write)
To what extent does the writer demonstrate the ability to…
 Locate a meaningful connection between two authors’ ideas (not plot).
 Generate an effective and organized synthesis summary and support its
assertions with examples from both texts as well as the writer’s own ideas.
 Accurately and effectively step into and out of quotations and paraphrase.
LANGUAGE (How you write it)
To what extent does the writer demonstrate the ability to...
 Use diction and syntax appropriate for the audience and subject.
 Write clear, strong, interesting sentences.
 Avoid errors in grammar, punctuation, usage, etc.
 Follow the conventions of the medium (class format).
STRUCTURE (What order it’s in)
To what extent does the writer demonstrate the ability to...
 Organize cohesive paragraphs. Does each paragraph have its own clear
function within the essay’s overall plan?
 Spend an appropriate amount of words on each task within the prompt.
 Write effective transitions that employ pointing words and bridge sentences.
Points:
Decimal Grade:
Percentage:
Letter Grade:
Failing
Below 0.7