Student Name: __________________________________________________________________
Period: _______________
English 11 Unit Four Embedded Assessment 1: Writing an Analytical Essay (Rubric)
SCORING CRITERIA
Ideas
____ /30
EXEMPLARY
PROFICIENT
EMERGING
The essay effectively analyzes an appropriate
theme from the text and thoroughly explains how
the author’s symbolism develops the theme over
the course of the novel.
 Specific and well-chosen examples support the
argument
 The analysis is thorough and perceptive
 Arguments are convincing
The analysis focuses on an appropriate theme from
the text and explains how the author’s symbolism
relates to the theme.
The analysis does not focus on an appropriate
theme from the text and/or inadequately connects
the theme to the symbolism within the novel.
 Examples from the text are used to support the
argument
 An analysis of the theme is provided
 Arguments are consistent



There is little evidence to support the
argument
Analysis may be oversimplified or replaced by
summary
Arguments are unclear
30-25
Organization
____ /20
Use of Language
24-15
Organization is clear and easy to follow. Transitions
are used between ideas.
14-0
Organization is poor, making the essay difficult to
follow. It lacks transitions between ideas.
20-16
Diction and syntax are purposeful and appropriate
for an academic audience.
15-8
Diction and syntax are appropriate for an academic
audience but may demonstrate incorrect or
awkward word choice and sentence structure.
7-0
Diction and syntax may be simplistic or
inappropriate for an academic audience. Slang,
informal word choice, or awkward sentence
structure may be present.
10-8
The writing demonstrates thoughtful planning,
significant revision, and careful editing.
7-4
The writing demonstrates some evidence of
planning, revision, and editing.
3-0
The writing lacks evidence of adequate planning,
revision, and editing.
Organization is exceptional. Ideas move smoothly
and transitions are utilized effectively to enhance
the essay’s coherence.
____ /10
Evidence of the
Writing Process and
Rehearsal
____ /20
Conventions
____ /20
20-16
The writing demonstrates strong control and
mastery of standard conventions. Either few errors
appear, or they are so slight that they don’t
interfere with the meaning. Commas, semicolons,
correct agreement, and active voice are used
correctly throughout the essay.
20-16
15-8
The writing demonstrates control of standard
writing conventions. Though some errors may
appear, they do not seriously impede readability.
Commas, semicolons, correct agreement, and
active voice are mostly used correctly throughout
the essay.
7-4
7-0
The writing demonstrates a lack of control of
standard writing conventions. As a result, frequent
errors seriously interfere with the meaning.
Commas, semicolons, correct agreement, and
active voice are not used correctly throughout the
essay.
3-0
Additional Comments:
__________/100