Definition Essay Rubric
Introduction effectively catches the attention of the reader and
leads into a strong thesis.
4
3 2 1 0
Thesis states term to be defined and briefly states how a High
School student views the meaning of “Survival”.
4
3 2 1 0
Examples includes several quotes that are explained, and
clearly illuminate the meaning of the term.
4
3 2 1 0
Examples paragraphs are developed with enough detail to show
how they relate to the thesis.
3 2 1 0
4
Examples paragraphs are arranged in a logical order that aids
understanding.
4
3 2 1 0
Examples all relate to how a High School student views the
word.
Essay includes strong transitions that help the paper flow from
one point to another.
4
3 2 1 0
4
3 2 1 0
Conclusion ends the essay without introducing new questions or
ideas
and is an effective ending/ summation of the paper as a whole
4
3 2 1 0
Essay adheres to the basic rules of grammar, spelling, and
punctuation
Student avoids use of contractions
4
3 2 1 0
4
3 2 1 0
Total _____/40
40=100
Definition Essay Rubric
Introduction effectively catches the attention of the reader and
leads into a strong thesis.
4
3 2 1 0
Thesis states term to be defined and briefly states how a High
School student views the meaning of “Survival”.
4
3 2 1 0
Examples includes several quotes that are explained, and
clearly illuminate the meaning of the term.
4
3 2 1 0
Examples paragraphs are developed with enough detail to show
how they relate to the thesis.
3 2 1 0
4
Examples paragraphs are arranged in a logical order that aids
understanding.
4
3 2 1 0
Examples all relate to how a High School student views the
word.
Essay includes strong transitions that help the paper flow from
one point to another.
4
3 2 1 0
4
3 2 1 0
Conclusion ends the essay without introducing new questions or
ideas
and is an effective ending/ summation of the paper as a whole
4
3 2 1 0
Essay adheres to the basic rules of grammar, spelling, and
punctuation
Student avoids use of contractions
4
3 2 1 0
4
3 2 1 0
Total _____/40
40=100