Classification Essay Grading Rubric
Format (____ out of 10)
No
0
Kind of
1
Yes
2
Poor
Below
Average
2
Average
Good
Excellent
3
4
5
Average
Good
Excellent
3
4
5
Title (centered and capital letters)
Indented / Margins
Only one paragraph
Double Spaced
Neat
Content and Organization (____ out of 40)
1
The paragraph starts with a hook which makes the reader want
to continue reading.
The thesis statement is at the end of the introduction
paragraph. It has a clear topic and controlling idea.
There are three body paragraphs. Each has at least five
sentences and clearly supports the thesis.
Each body paragraph starts with a topic sentence.
All three categories follow the same principle of organization.
The order of ideas and content of body paragraphs is parallel.
The conclusion restates the thesis, has at least three sentences,
and leaves the reader feeling satisfied.
Effective transitions help ideas flow smoothly from one to the
next.
Grammar and Mechanics (____ out of 50)
Poor
1
Below
Average
2
There is a period at the end of each sentence, commas are used
correctly, and capital letters are used where necessary.
Variety of verb tenses are used correctly.
Includes present perfect ________
Each verb agrees with its subject (S/V agreement)
Passive voice is included.
Articles, determiners, and nouns are used correctly.
Word choice and word forms are correct. – This includes
gerunds and infinitives.
All sentences contain at least one subject and one verb and
express a complete thought (no FRAG, RO, CS)
A variety of sentences is used (simple, compound, complex)
Clear pronoun referents and uses appropriate “person” (1st
person, 2nd person, 3rd person )
Grammar is parallel. (Pay attention to list of categories)
Words are spelled correctly.
*** Your essay must include at least one present perfect verb, one passive, one modal, and one gerund
or infinitive. It also needs to include a variety of subordinating conjunctions (complex sentences).
**Five bonus points for handing in peer review form and proofread (marked) 1st draft.