In-Class Essay Editing Checklist
Grade 12U
Name: _________________________________
Editor#1: _________________________________
Editor #2:__________________________________
INTRODUCTION
YES
Essay begins with a sentence that grabs the reader’s
attention
Chosen subject (s) are mentioned
Author and date are mentioned the first time the novel is
mentioned
The basic plot of the novel is explained (briefly)
Thesis is 1-2 sentences with the items for discussion clearly
indicated
Subtopics are in the order they will be discussed
Introduction is FORMAL
Language is mature, academic and scholarly as expected at
12 U level
SUBTOPIC #1= Character #1 OR Topic #1
The topic sentence clearly outlines the first character OR topic mentioned in
the thesis
There are 2-3 clear examples, they stand out individually and do not blend
together
1-2 quotes used as support, explained, and cited in correct MLA form
Linking language is used to move between the two points clearly
Language is FORMAL
Language is mature, academic and scholarly as expected at 12 U level
SUBTOPIC #2= Character #2 OR Topic #2
The topic sentence clearly outlines the first character OR topic mentioned
in the thesis
There are 2-3 clear examples, they stand out individually and do not blend
together
1-2 quotes used as support, explained, and cited in correct MLA form
Linking language is used to move between the two points clearly
Language is FORMAL
Language is mature, academic and scholarly as expected at 12 U level
SUBTOPIC #3= Character #3 OR Topic #3
The topic sentence clearly outlines the first character mentioned in the
thesis
There are 3 clear examples, they stand out individually and do not blend
together
1-2 quotes used as support, explained, and cited in correct MLA form
Linking language is used to move between the two points clearly
Language is FORMAL
YES
NO
NO
Language is mature, academic and scholarly as expected at 12U level
CONCLUSION
Thesis is restated, not using the same language
No “new” ideas are introduced
You clearly refer to the purpose [social commentary] of the paper
Bring closure to your topic, not just by summarizing the paper, but by
bringing out the significance
Information is not just restated or repeated
The conclusion leaves the reader with something to think about
STYLE AND GRAMMAR
Entire essay is FORMAL
Sentences are combined in a variety of ways with longer sentences making
up the majority of the paper
Sophisticated language and academic diction are used
Paragraphs are mature in length but not excessively long ( ½ – ¾ of a page)
Essay is five paragraph or more
Essay is coherent, and sentences and paragraphs flow logically
One consistent verb tense is used throughout
Quotations have no end punctuation (unless a question/exclamation mark)
Student has proofread the essay at least 4 times for careless errors
Formatted properly using MLA style
All rough work is included and completed