Grades 3-5 Narrative Writing Rubric
Ms. Long's writing 1
3rd-5th
Narrative
Ideas
4
3
2
Joint School District No. 2
Adapted from Great Source Rubrics
1
An unforgettable experience is
An interesting experience is
The narrative needs to focus on
shared using descriptive details shared with descriptive details
The narrative needs to share an
one experience. Some
that make the narrative truly
that help create the interest.
experience and use descriptive
descriptive details do not fit the
memorable.
Some parts may need more
details.
narrative or details are missing.
details.
The plot/sequence of events
The narrative is well organized,
(beginning, middle, and ending)
The organization makes the
with a clear plot/sequence of
runs together or because parts
Organization narrative enjoyable and easy to events (beginning, middle, and
of the story are undeveloped or
read.
ending). Most of the transitions
lack transitions. The order of
are helpful.
events is unclear.
The narrative needs to be
reorganized.
Voice
The voice creates an
unforgettable experience.
The voice creates interest in the
narrative. Dialogue is used.
The voice is weak. More
dialogue is needed.
The voice shows no
involvement in the narrative.
Dialogue is needed.
Word
Choice
Exceptional word choice
through the use of specific
nouns, strong verbs, and wellchosen modifiers captures the
experience.
Specific nouns and strong
verbs are used. Modifiers are
needed to create a clearer
picture.
General and overused words do
not create a clear picture.
Word choice has not been
considered.
Sentence
Fluency
The sentences are skillfully
written, original, and
interesting.
Many short or incomplete
The sentences show variety and
sentences need to be combined
are usually easy to read and
to keep the writing from being
understand.
choppy.
Most sentences need to be
rewritten. Help is needed.
Conventions
Grammar and punctuation are
correct, and the writing is free
of spelling errors.
The narrative has a few errors
in punctuation, spelling, or
grammar that do not cause
confusion.
Errors in conventions cause
confusion.
Many errors make the narrative
confusing and hard to read.
Help is needed to make
corrections.