Rubric – Problem Solution Research Essay
Ideas and Content (Problem Section)
Writer offers solid and indisputable proof that a problem not only exists but that it is a grave problem that must be
Excellent
addressed. Writing is well- focused, clear and interesting. Holds the reader’s attention.
Contains supporting details that are rich, relevant, accurate.
Problem is clearly explained in detail with intelligent connections between points.
Average
Writer offers generic/obvious proof that a problem not only exists but that it is a grave problem that must be addressed.
Writing is focused, clear and contains easily understood ideas.
Support is present, although it may be limited or general.
Provides some predictable evidence supporting positions.
Explanations are limited but present.
Below
Standard
Writer offers basic/limited proof that a problem not only exists but that it is a grave problem that must be addressed.
Problem is developed somewhat, but limited in detail.
Provides evidence that is general or not clearly linked to a position.
Provides more of a list of ideas, not explaining how they are connected to a clear problem.
Ideas and Content (Solution Section)
Writer offers solid and feasible solutions.
Excellent
Writing is well- focused, clear and interesting.
Holds the reader’s attention.
Contains ample supporting details that are rich, relevant, accurate.
Solutions are clearly explained in detail and intelligent connections between points.
Average
Writer offers generic/obvious solutions.
Writing is focused, clear and contains easily understood ideas.
Support is present, although it may be limited or general.
Provides some predictable, non-convincing, evidence supporting positions.
Explanations are limited but present.
Below
Standard
Writer offers basic/limited solutions.
Solutions are developed somewhat, but limited in detail evidence that is general or not clearly linked to a position.
Provides more of a list of ideas, does not explain how they are connected to a clear solution/s.
Organization/Sentence Fluency
Order and structure are strong & compelling.
Excellent
Inviting beginning and satisfying closure.
Clear thesis
Effective sequencing or ideas.
Writing is easy to follow. Sentences are well-constructed and demonstrate strong skill in varying sentence styles.
Smooth, effective transitions between sentences, paragraphs, and ideas.
Average
Order and structure are competent.
Developed introduction and conclusion but not particularly interesting or satisfying.
Thesis exists but is not clear and does not stand out easily
Predictable sequencing.
Writing is fairly easy to follow.
Transitions may be formulaic.
Sentences are competent and demonstrate adequate skill in basic sentence styles, some problems with complex styles.
Below
Standard
Overall structure is inconsistent or skeletal, and lacks a clear organizational structure.
Beginning or ending present but not well-developed. Attempts at sequencing;
Relationship between ideas may occasionally be unclear.
Uses the same transitional devices that sometimes work.
Sentences demonstrate basic mastery of simple sentence styles, some problems with complex styles impede meaning.
Difficult to follow.
Word Choice/Voice
Language is accurate, strong, specific words; powerful words that energize the writing.
Vivid expressions/slang seems purposeful and effective.
Vocabulary is striking and varied, but not overdone.
Words evoke strong images.
Words work but don’t energize.
Expressions are functional.
Attempts at colorful language/slang may seem occasionally seem overdone or ineffective
Generally avoids clichés. Rare experiments with language, but may have some fine moments.
Language is ordinary, mundane, generic or may be inappropriate to audience and purpose in places.
Attempts at original language/slang seem overdone or forced.
Misused words may occasionally appear.
Reliance on clichés and overused expressions.
Conventions
Punctuation, spelling, grammar mechanics are correct.
Internal documentation is correctly formatted,
Works cited/Reference page properly formatted.
Minimal need for editing.
Punctuation, spelling, grammar and mechanics are competent.
Few problems with internal citation
Few problems with works cited/reference page.
ome need for further editing.
Punctuation, spelling, grammar and mechanics contain basic errors, in addition to some errors on more complex
sentences/words.
Significant problems on internal citation set-up and/or works cited.
Problems with format.
Significant need for revision/editing.
Other Comments