Conspiracy Theory Rubric (28 points total)
Section A
-Conventional
Belief
Section B
Unconventional
Belief
Requirements (1 point for each bullet point)
 Provide strong introduction to the paper and to the topic
 Give plenty of background information... dates, important people, historical
context
 If applicable, why was this a big deal?
 Strong grammar and language
 Use your own words / No plagiarism
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Section C
-Explanation
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Thoroughly explain what the unconventional belief (conspiracy, myth, etc) is
Explain how this contradicts the conventional/accepted belief (part A)
Explain where the myth came from and/or why it exists
Explain what any and all 'evidence' those that support the myth cite to back
their claim. (many topics will have more than one thing to list here)
Strong grammar and language
Use your own words/ no plagiarism
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Thorough explanation of how scientific evidence and common sense back the
conventional belief and NOT the conspiracy/myth (2 pts).
Provide counterpoints (actual science/evidence) to any "evidence" presented
in part B
General statement about why the accepted belief is likely the correct
explanation
General statement about why the unconventional belief should not be
realistically considered, or why it is probably not what actually happened
General statement about conspiracy theories/myths and why they exist, why
they are generally not legitimate, and why they do not follow scientific/logical
thinking.
Strong grammar and language
Use your own words/ no plagiarism
Presentation
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Speak freely (don’t read to much from your sheet)
Do not repeat yourself
Strong understanding of topic is expressed
able to intelligently answer follow up questions
All elements of paper are presented
Full paper
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at least 2 full pages in length. Double spaced. (DO NOT TRY TO MAKE
EXTRA SPACES BETWEEN PARAGRAPHS OR SECTIONS OR ANY OTHER TRICK TO
FILL UP TWO PAGES... 2 pages should be achieved EASILY with the actual
content of the paper.
11 pt Calibri font.
Name on top left with "Conceptual Physics" below it. (DO NOT need anyting
else taking up space below your name and class)
Title is centered.
Any direct quotes or paraphrased quotes should be cited.
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