Slavery Rubric
How did economic, geographic and social factors encourage the growth of slavery as an important part
of the economy of the southern colonies between 1607 and 1750?
8-9
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7
Has a clear and sophisticated thesis that addresses how each factor encouraged slavery in the
time period; thesis should address change over time.
Develops the thesis with abundant relevant, specific data on each of the three factors.
Offers a balanced presentation of the three factors.
Has consistent and sophisticated analysis of the data.
Identifies and explains change over time; this may be done holistically or as a function of one
or more of the factors.
Is well written and organized.
Is error free.
The “7” essay is an 8-9 that has
 A less sophisticated thesis.
 A slight imbalance on the factors in either data or analysis (not both).
 An error.
 Less consistent analysis OR addresses change over time implicitly.
5-6
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Has a thesis that addresses the question but without sophistication or reference to change
over time; thesis may lack a proper introduction.
Has SOME relevant, specific data on each of the factors.
Has SOME analysis of each factor.
May be unbalanced.
Treats change over time simplistically or only in a limited or implicit way.
May have minor errors.
Has acceptable organization and writing.
3-4
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1-2
Has a weak (vague or ambiguous) thesis that lacks a proper introduction, or the thesis merely
restates the question.
Has little relevant, specific data; relies predominantly on generalization.
Has little effective analysis; may describe geographic conditions, for example, without
analyzing how such conditions encourage slavery over time.
Neglects change over time altogether.
Has errors
May be poorly organized or written.
Essays in this category do not reflect advance preparation.
 Has a confused thesis or no thesis.
 Has little or no specific data on the factors that encouraged slavery.
 Has no analysis or flawed analysis.
 May have major errors.
 May be poorly organized or written.