Writing Contest: Problem Solving Rubric
“My Dream Bedroom”
___ Typewritten & double-spaced
___ 400 words min./1000 words max.
___ All formulas and calculations
___ Scale drawing of room on grid paper; labeled w/ parts & measurements
___ Chart of all items to purchase (incl. brand name, store name, cost, tax, total cost of whole project)
___ Persuasive letter to your parents justifying how dream bedroom will increase your ability to study
4
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All above mentioned requirements are completed and all show highly effective problem solving skills
Letter is highly persuasive and uses strong supporting arguments
Precise word choice (active verbs/vivid descriptive language/sensory descriptions) or imagery used
Author’s “voice” shows writer’s excitement and makes writing fun to read
**Solution shows evidence of innovative thinking** (Contest Requirement)
**If extension of the room is required, is it innovative and effective** (Contest Requirement)
Correct paragraphing used
Grammar, spelling and punctuation are correct.
3
 All above mentioned requirements are completed and most show effective problem solving skills
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Letter is persuasive and uses supporting arguments
Word choice is effective (active verbs/vivid descriptive language/sensory descriptions used)
Author’s “voice” is appealing and well-suited to the topic
Correct paragraphing used
Grammar, spelling and punctuation are correct.
2
 All above mentioned requirements are completed and some show effective problem solving skills
 Letter is persuasive and some supporting arguments are effective
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Word choice includes some evidence of active verbs/vivid descriptive language/sensory descriptions
Author’s “voice” fades at times, but is acceptable to topic
Correct paragraphing used
Most grammar, spelling and punctuation are correct.
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Not all of the above mentioned requirements are completed
Letter may be incomplete or ineffective in its arguments
Words used incorrectly or overused words chosen
“Voice” is distant or not appropriate to topic
Paragraphing errors obvious
1
Many grammar, spelling and punctuation errors