Introduction to Comp Theory (ENG364) Research Paper Rubric
Component
Exemplary (+)
Introduction
Writer uses unique,
creative approach to
engage reader’s attention.
Topic is clearly laid out.
Thesis/Claim
Proficient (√)
Writer attempts to
use creative
approach to
engage reader’s
attention. Topic
is adequately laid
out.
Writer identifies and seeks Writer identifies
to fill a gap or oversight in and seeks to fill a
a theory about
gap or oversight
composition. Thesis is
in comp theory,
impressively stated in the but thesis is
first two paragraphs.
unclearly stated or
needs revision.
Argument/Solution The argument/solution is
clearly stated and
convincingly argued
through a variety of
impressive analysis and
use of research.
Rebuttals
The author is careful to
address counterarguments
to their perspective and
offers convincing
rebuttals.
Theoretical
Framework
Theoretical framework is
clearly, accurately, and
thoroughly established
using relevant sources.
The
argument/solution
is unclear but
there are some
areas of
impressive
analysis and
research is
generally used to
further the point
the author is
attempting to
make.
The author
addresses some
counterarguments,
but others are left
without being
addressed. Some
rebuttals may be
weak, but some
rebuttals are
convincing.
Most of the
theoretical
framework is
clearly,
Unsatisfactory ()
Writer does not
use creative
approach. Topic
is unclear.
Writer makes
obvious or
derivative claim
about the theory
and/or thesis is
not stated
directly.
The
argument/solution
is unclear and
analysis is thin.
The author tends
to ignore
counterarguments
or rebuttals are
weak.
Theoretical
framework is
inaccurately or
inadequately
accurately, and
thoroughly
established using
relevant sources.
Some theory may
seem to be
inadequately
defined,
misrepresented, or
unclear.
established
(theories or
theorists are
misrepresented or
outdated
materials are
used).
Close-reading of
theoretical texts
and issues
Writer provides insightful
and sophisticated
commentary on primary
research. Subtle nuances
are analyzed.
Writer provides
insightful
commentary on
primary research.
The writer misses
subtle nuances.
Writer provides
little or no
insightful
commentary on
primary research.
Writer seems to
be summarizing
the as opposed to
analyzing.
Supports
Writer integrates quotes or
paraphrases smoothly and
analyzes “expert”
opinions without
“plopping.” Relevant and
important context
information is provided
for each
quote/paraphrase/example.
Writer shows an
awareness of scholarly
work previously published
on their issue. Works
Cited page reflects
thorough research.
Writer has some
clunky supports,
but overall
paraphrases and
quotes are not
plopped. Quotes
and paraphrases
are framed
adequately.
Writer recognizes
some scholarly
work previously
published on their
issue. Works
Cited page
reflects adequate
research.
Writer tends to
plop quotes and
paraphrases
without framing
them and without
analysis or
explanation.
Writer’s voice is engaging
and consistent.
Transitions are smooth.
Grammar and mechanics
are correct. Academic
discourse is engaged well
Writer’s voice is
sometimes
engaging and
usually consistent.
Transitions are
usually smooth.
Awareness of
other perspectives
on the issue
Style
Writer does not
demonstrate an
awareness of
scholarly work
previously
published on their
issue. Works
Cited page
reflects weak
research.
Writer’s voice is
rarely engaging
and often
inconsistent.
Transitions are
choppy.
In-Text Citations
Works Cited page
Proofreading
Conclusion
Each + = 10 points
90 points
Each √ = 5 points
to 89 points
Each - = 1 point
to 13 to points
without wordiness or
awkward sentences.
MLA style for in-text
citations is consistently
used correctly.
Quotations are punctuated
correctly.
Writer generally
uses MLA style
correctly, but
sometimes
punctuation is
incorrect.
MLA style for works cited MLA style for
is followed consistently.
works cited is
generally
followed, but
there may be a
few problems
with presentation.
There are no glaring
There are
proofreading or editing
noticeable
errors.
proofreading
issues, but not
more than one per
page.
The conclusion leads the
The conclusion
reader further and keeps
hints at a
them thinking and
summary but
engaged intellectually.
there is an attempt
to further
intellectual
engagement or
create reader
connections with
the argument.
In-text citations
are missing or
only occasionally
used.
SCALE:
+ Paper = over
Writer follows
some other style
for documenting
sources or MLA
is seriously
inaccurate.
The proofreading
errors are
distracting.
The conclusion is
a summary of the
argument and
nothing more.
√ Paper = 65
- Paper = 64