I chose three topics in the upload.
The following criteria are based on the recommendations of the departmental Curriculum Committee, February 20, 2009. Updated August 2015. Using sources information added May 2022.
A (100-90)
The A paper will have a thesis (i.e., a definite main idea) clearly supported with concrete, relevant details and the required source:
Clear organizational pattern to include an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
Coherent body paragraphs that develop one specific idea with concrete details.
Clear, varied, and mature sentences.
Vivid and exact word choice.
Smooth, logical flow with clear transitions within and between paragraphs.
Polished writing style, consistent in tone and appropriate to the subject.
Accurate and varied citing of required source as appropriate.
No errors in Work Cited entry.
No more than two major errors, unless there are redeeming features. *
Absence of minor errors that interfere with communication.
B (89-80)
The B paper has many of the excellent qualities of the A paper in terms of the required source, unity, organization, and development, but there will not be as much skill displayed in the handling of ideas or use of language.
Accurate and varied citing of required source as appropriate.
No errors in Work Cited entry.
No more than three major errors, unless there are redeeming features. *
C (79-70)
The C paper falls within the average rank for college-level writing. It will have a stated purpose, a definite organization, details for support, and some variety in sentence structure. Normally a paper will earn no better than a C if it has
Inaccurate and lack of variety in citing source.
Errors in Work Cited entry.
Four major errors. *
Minor errors that interfere with communication.
D (69-60)
The D paper is considered below average for college-level writing. It will be deficient in one or more areas of citing the source, unity, organization, development, grammar, and mechanics. Normally a paper will earn no better than a D if it has
Minimum use of and inaccurate citing of source.
Errors in Work Cited entry
Five-seven major errors. *
Numerous minor errors that interfere with communication.
F (59 and below)
All of our papers require you to cite source or sources and to construct a Work(s) Cited. If you do not, you have not done the assignment.
The F paper falls far below average expectations and is deficient in use of source, unity, organization, development, grammar, and/or mechanics. Normally a paper will earn no better than an F if it
Does not fulfill the assignment. See Essay Requirements
Has no source.
Has no Work Cited.
Contains eight or more major errors. *
*These numbers apply to essays of approximately 500 words. Other numbers might apply to shorter or longer works.
