Writer Self-Assessment / Rubric
1. Write down your thesis statement.
2. Number your paragraphs and write out the numbered list. For each
paragraph, write out its topic sentence and describe what that paragraph is
about / what its purpose is.
3. Using the style sheet, circle all instances of the wordy phrases (from column
one) in your essay. Rewrite those sentences on the draft (if you have room) or
on a new piece of paper, replacing the wordy phrases with more concise ones.
This may require reworking the sentence as a whole.
4. Now, complete the questionnaire below on a separate piece of paper.
How would I currently rate this paper on a letter grade scale (A is highest, F is lowest)?
After rating it, explain WHY you gave it that rating. If you could improve it, explain
how. If it doesn’t need improvement, explain that too.
40 pts / Content: Fulfills the assignment, makes an argument, compares and/or
contrasts specific topics with sufficient focus? (review assignment sheet before
answering)
40 pts / Content: Uses ample supporting detail and specific examples?
40 pts / Organization: Paragraphs used effectively? Thesis statement and topic
sentences clearly stated?
30 pts / Organization: Transitions connect the paragraphs and overall ideas?
30 pts / Style: sentences are clear and concise, avoiding wordiness and unnecessary
phrases?
20 pts / Mechanics: Essay does not contain errors? If it does, note what they are and
rewrite a specific example sentence for each kind of error noted.