Problem/Solution Essay
CATEGORY Graphic Organizer/Essay Draft 16-20 Advanced
Graphic organizer or outline has been completed and shows clear, logical relationships between all topics and subtopics. The introductory paragraph has a strong hook or attention grabber that is appropriate for the reader. In addition, it has a strong thesis statement. and examples are specific, relevant and explanations are given that show how each topic relates to the thesis statement. The conclusion is strong and leaves the reader solidly understanding the writer's position. Plus, the thesis statement is restated, a summary is presented along with a closing sentence. Ten transitional words are in BOLD and used clearly to connect ideas.
11-15 Proficient
Graphic organizer or outline has been completed and shows clear, logical relationships between most topics and subtopics. The introductory paragraph has a hook or attention grabber, but it weak and contains rambling. It has a well-developed thesis statement. Most of the evidence and examples are specific, relevant and explanations are given that show how each topic relates to the thesis statement. Most of the conclusion is welldeveloped but is missing one of the following elements: restatement of the thesis statement, a summary, or a closing sentence.
6-10 Basic
0-5 Below Basic
Graphic organizer or Graphic organizer or outline has been outline has not been started and includes attempted. some topics and subtopics.
Introduction
The author has an interesting introductory paragraph but the connection is unclear. The thesis statement needs improvement. At least one of the pieces of evidence and the examples are relevant and has an explanation that shows how the topic relates to the thesis statement. More than two elements are missing from the conclusion. This includes two of the following elements: restatement of the thesis statement, a summary, or a closing sentence. Five to six transitional words are in BOLD and used clearly to connect ideas.
The introductory paragraph is not interesting AND is not relevant to the topic. The thesis statement is unclear.
Body Paragraphs All of the evidence
Evidence and examples are NOT relevant AND/OR are not explained.
Closing Paragraph
The conclusion needs improvement and lacks restatement of the thesis statement, summary, and a closing sentence.
Transitions
Seven to nine transitional words are in BOLD and used clearly to connect ideas.
Four or less transitional words are in BOLD and used clearly to connect ideas.
Conventions
Evident control of grammar, mechanics, spelling, usage and sentence formation. There are no mistakes.
Sufficient control of grammar, mechanics, spelling, usage and sentence formation. There are less than two mistakes.
Limited control of grammar, mechanics, spelling, usage and sentence formation. There are less than four mistakes.
Minimal control of grammar, mechanics, spelling, usage and sentence formation. There are more than five mistakes.
