Grading the “work” essays
What is an "A" paper?This is what I expect for “work” essays that I grade “A” or “B”
Level 1: Concept
Does the essay have a clear structure: a strong thesis statement in the first paragraph, and then a clear topic sentence for each paragraph in the body.
Is each each topic sentence clearly related to the thesis? Does each topic sentence distinct from the others (rather than being sort of the same reason phrased a little differently)?
Is the writing interesting? Does it matter? Is the writer saying something he or she believes is worth saying?
Level 2: Style
Are the sentences clear and graceful and tight? Do they avoid awkward constructions and wordiness?
Does the writer pay attention to parallel structure?
Is the writing full of the sensory detail of the actual world: are there places and people that we see and hear? Does the writer slip out of vague statements and show us things: a person working, someone talking, processes taking place. If the topic is the work in a cherry warehouse, can we hear the machinery running, chains over sprockets and engines running? Can we see the character of light streaming in large north windows that appear not to have been washed this year? The concrete floor stained with motor oil and smashed cherries.
When we hear from a character, do we get to see him or her? Does he look away into the distance when he thinks. Does he bend and rebend a paper clip as he talked? Does he thump on the table with his fore-finger to emphasize points?
Do we get to hear his actual voice? Does he speak in short, clipped sentences, as though distrusting words? Does she speak softly, casting a warm and sentimental glow over the details of her life? Does he interrupt, like someone in a hurry?
Level 3: Grammar, usage, and conventions
Are all the words spelled correctly?
Is the punctuation correct, including the use of hyphens.
Is capitalization used correctly?
Is the point of view consistent?
Are verb tenses consistent?
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