Highly Effective
The writer uses an organizational strategy to
present ideas clearly and effectively.

Logical progression of thought

Smooth and controlled

Meaningful transitions

Uses evidence from the text (direct
quotations, descriptions, and/or epithets
to support claims about the character
Highly Effective
The writer’s thorough and specific development
enables the reader to truly understand and
appreciate the writer’s ideas.

Depth of character analysis

Quality enhanced by compositional risks
(Figurative Language i.e. use of similes,
metaphors, personification, & idioms)

Ideas are thoughtful and they explain
character motives & actions

Interesting connections
Highly Effective
The writer engages the reader, sustaining this
connection throughout the composition.

Authentic and original (Your TONE i.e.
comedic, serious, sarcastic, and etc.)

Expresses individuality

Unique perspective
Highly Effective
Conventions
Voice
Focus and
Coherence
Most, if not all, of the writing contributes to and
sustains the quality of the composition as a whole.

Meaningful thesis statement about your
character

Ideas present a vivid picture of the
character

You establish a dominate impression of
the character
Organization
Student _____________________________
Date _____________________
Development of
Ideas
Characterization Essay Rubric
The writer uses words, phrases, and sentence
structure to enhance the overall effectiveness of
ideas. The writer demonstrates a consistent
command of:

Spelling, capitalization, punctuation

Grammar and usage

Varied sentence structures & patterns
(Declarative, Interrogative, Simple,
Compound, Telegraphic, Medium, & etc.)
The writer may make minor errors as a result of
compositional risks which do not detract from the
overall fluency of the composition.
10
Generally Effective
9–8
Somewhat Effective
7
Ineffective
5
10
Generally Effective
9–8
Somewhat Effective
7
Ineffective
5
10
Generally Effective
9–8
Somewhat Effective
7
Ineffective
5
10
Generally Effective
9–8
Somewhat Effective
7
Ineffective
5
Highly Effective
10
Generally Effective
9–8
Somewhat Effective
7
Ineffective
5
Score ________________
High School English Language Arts
Committee/Pam Byrne