Essay Rubric
Comparative Essay
Question: Compare and contrast the Neolithic Agricultural Revolution and the Industrial
Revolution.
1
Acceptable Thesis -
□ Compares (similarities and differences)
□ Neolithic Agricultural Revolution and Industrial
Revolution
2 points for addressing all of the following, 1 for most.
2
Addresses all parts of
the question, though
not necessarily evenly
or thoroughly.
□ Addresses Neolithic Agricultural Revolution and
Industrial Revolution
□ Gives an accurate similarity AND an accurate
difference
□ Addresses at least two different aspects
2 points for minimum of 2 examples each;
1 point for minimum of 1 example each.
2
1
Substantiates thesis
with appropriate
historical evidence.
Makes at least one or
two relevant, direct
comparisons between
or among societies.
□ Relevant example for Neolithic Agricultural Revolution
□ Relevant example for Neolithic Agricultural Revolution
□ Relevant example for Neolithic Agricultural Revolution
□ Relevant example for Industrial Revolution
□ Relevant example for Industrial Revolution
□ Relevant example for Industrial Revolution
□ At least one relevant and substantiated direct
comparison or contrasting point. (Besides the thesis
statement)
□ Exceptionally strong thesis
□ Addresses thoroughly all parts of the question:
0 - 3 Expanded Core
 comparisons, chronology, causation, connections,
themes, interactions, content
□ 2+ examples of historical evidence to substantiate the
thesis
□ Demonstrates the ability to relate to global context
 the six world history themes
□ Goes beyond basic comparisons by analyzing the
reasons for similarities/differences
□ Makes direct comparisons consistently
Total Points