Short Term Paper Grading Form
Dr. Carolyn Lewis
Clarity (50%)
1. Introduction that clearly describes the purpose (i.e. question to be addressed) and the
direction in which the paper will develop. (10 pts)
____________

Formulate a clear thesis statement (preferably by the close of the first paragraph)
that gives the reader an unambiguous understanding of the topic and the direction
in which the paper will develop.
2. Logical presentation of ideas and consistent development of a coherent and meaningful
argument. (30 pts)
____________






Calling an argument “ignorant” is not an acceptable form of argumentation.
Each paragraph should make a point and build to a conclusion that is logical and
consistent.
Give arguments that are fair and balanced.
Do not use anecdotal forms of evidence to support an argument.
Avoid making arguments based on either ethnocentric or gender centric
perceptions.
Make distinctions between logical categories when necessary.
3. Conclusion that summarizes the central ideas developed in the paper and provokes a
desire for further inquiry and thought on the subject. (10 pts)
____________



Write a conclusion that is consistent with and summarizes the main points of your
argument in the paper.
Do not make assertions in the conclusion that have not been supported by
argumentation in the paper.
Do not introduce new information to an argument at the conclusion of the paper.
Depth (30%)
1. Arguments exhibit detailed and thoughtful consideration of your topic and its
implications for understanding political life. (20 pts)
____________



The topics that you address and arguments that you make must relate to politics in
some way, and that relation should be evident in the paper.
Try to write arguments that anticipate, and as much as possible, counter any
opposing arguments.
It is alright to write in first person and to give your opinion about a topic.
However, your opinion must be substantiated by arguments (i.e., logical and
verifiable reasons) that are thorough and thoughtful.
2. The overall complexity of the arguments made while avoiding unproductive
digressions or tangents. (10 pts)
____________

Avoid unnecessary and unproductive digressions that take you away from the
main line of argument being addressed in the paper.
Style of Presentation (20%)
1. Correct spelling and avoidance of grammatical errors. (10 pts)






____________
Use spell-check to check your paper for any typos or misspellings.
Do not write incomplete sentences. Avoid sentence fragments.
Do not write run-on sentences.
Know the difference between “their” and “there,” and when each is appropriate.
Do not confuse “whether” with “weather.”
Use commas, semicolon, colons, and periods only where appropriate.
2. Is the text written in a logical and aesthetic manner with appropriate transitions, clear,
fluent and expressive language? (10 pts)
____________









Use a professional style of writing.
Do not use contractions.
Use “its” only for possessive cases.
Do not make flippant remarks in your paper.
Do not use capitalization in sentences unless appropriate or necessary.
Do not triple or quadruple space between paragraphs.
Avoid clichés and trite sayings.
Structure paragraphs. Do not write short 1-3 sentence paragraphs.
Avoid awkward phrasing and poor word choices.
Late Penalty
One-half of a letter grade (5 pts) is deducted for each class session after the paper is due.
____________