Rubric

The “A” Paper: Has a clear, exceptionally intelligent argument (thesis).  It develops that argument using thoughtfully presented evidence.  The paper exhibits controlled organization, unity, and coherence.  It also demonstrates originality and dexterity in the manipulation of ideas.   An “A” paper, of course, contains very few grammatical mistakes and has precise punctuation, spelling, and mechanics.  The best papers go beyond the obvious and show careful attention to details.  These papers are directed toward an academic audience, avoiding sensational or overly general writing. The “A-” Paper attends to all elements of the assignment but misses out on having the truly brilliant argument of an “A” paper.  It’s good; it’s not wrong—but it might be a touch obvious.  It does still have careful attention to details, a strong thesis, excellent evidence and while making its argument, is similarly grammatically correct and geared toward an academic audience.

The “B” Paper: Demonstrates thoughtful and satisfactory manipulation of ideas, and attempts to answer a question.  States argument clearly, although the thesis may be obvious or flawed. Might have some small problems that weaken the paper.  The argument is supported by correct in-text citations, but the analysis may lack the depth of an “A” paper.  Generally, the overall argument is good but not great; there might be a couple of minor logical flaws.   Any combination of these problems might co-exist and lower the grade to a “B-.”

The “C” Paper: Fulfills the requirements of the assignment, but shows mundane thought in constructing the paper.  One telltale sign of a “C” English paper is the substitution of plot summary for analysis.  Another factor would be weak analysis:  a vague thesis which never really coheres into an argument, logic flaws, glaring mistakes regarding textual evidence (misreadings, careless readings), or a lack of coherence and clarity at points.   Any combination of these problems might lower the grade to a “C-.”

The “D” Paper: Contains an ill-defined or poorly supported argument.  It evinces sub-par or mistaken effort.  On the level of writing, it likely appears to be a first draft—either due to grammatical errors or issues in clarity.

The “F” Paper: Has major issues, such as a poor argument, evident lack of effort or concentration, or careless grammatical or stylistic errors.  A paper that does not follow formatting guidelines or does not document its evidence and cite its sources generally receives an “F.”

See, also: http://andromeda.rutgers.edu/~jlynch/EngPaper/index.html for sound advice on how to get an “A” on an English paper!