Grade

Thesis paragraph

Topic Sentences

Evidence

Analysis

A

Clearly and concisely answers the question: the thesis.

Takes a clear position.

Provides an effective counterargument.

Includes mention of three major points to be used as proof.

Each topic sentence clearly states a reason why the thesis is true.

Each topic sentence expresses a clear cause-and-effect link

All evidence supports the topic sentence.

All evidence is specific.

All evidence is factually correct.

Sufficient evidence is provided

All evidence is analyzed in support of thesis.

Overall argument is coherent and logical.

Conclusion answers “so what”?

B

Thesis is awkward, or hard to find or follow.

Position is unclear.

Counterargument is hard to find or follow

Points of proof are unclear.

Most topic sentences clearly state a reason why the thesis is true.

Most topic sentences express a clear cause-and-effect link.

Most evidence supports the topic sentence.

Most evidence is specific.

Most evidence is factually correct.

More evidence is needed

Most evidence is analyzed in support of thesis.

Most of the argument is coherent and logical.

Conclusion is less successful

C

Thesis is at best a restatement of the question posed.

No clear position is provided.

Attempt at counterargument.

Does not include mention of all major points of proof.

Some topic sentences clearly state a reason why the thesis is true.

Some topic sentences express a clear cause-and-effect link.

Some evidence supports the topic sentence.

Some evidence is specific.

Some evidence is factually correct.

Much more evidence is needed.

Some evidence is analyzed in support of thesis.

Some of the argument is coherent and logical.

D

Thesis provides only a fact or facts, at best.  Does not answer the question.

No counterargument is provided.

Most points of proof are missing.

Topic sentences state facts but do not clearly state reasons why the thesis is true.

Little evidence is specific or related to thesis.

Little evidence is analyzed.

The argument lacks logic or coherence.

F

No thesis or counterargument provided.

No major points of proof provided.

No topic sentences relate to the question.

No evidence is specific or related to thesis.

No evidence is analyzed.

The overall argument is illogical.