Note that student work varies significantly from one assignment to the next, even within the
same mark range. The intent of providing samples such as this one is to guide students in
recognizing key criteria of assignments and in assessing their own work.
SAMPLE CONCLUSION – (barely) SATISFACTORY
Essay question: Examine the causes and effects of prejudicial attitudes and beliefs in the
novel, To Kill a Mockingbird.
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Strengths:
• Sentences are grammatically correct (communication).
Tips for Improvement:
• While all elements of a concluding paragraph are present, more development of each
step is necessary. The problem of a factual thesis affects the development of the entire
essay, including the conclusion (application).
• The thesis and outline of arguments are basically copied from the introduction;
rewording would add variety (communication).
• Add more transition words (communication).
• Stay in present tense (communication).
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Therefore, many of Maycomb’s citizens show prejudice. Atticus and Jem show
prejudice towards females. Most of Maycomb's white citizens were prejudiced against blacks.
Alexandra Finch prejudged others based on their social class. Personal happiness is possible
only through appreciating everyone.