Category

20 — Excellent

18 — Proficient

16 — Developing

14 — Beginning

Main Idea / Central Idea

Presents a clear, specific, and arguable central idea about identity in the book. The claim goes beyond stating the obvious.

The main/central idea is present and addresses identity, but may be vague or somewhat predictable.

The main idea/central idea is unclear, too broad, or simply restates the prompt without taking a real position.

No identifiable central idea. Response does not address identity.

Use of Text Evidence

Includes 3+ specific, well-chosen moments from the book. Evidence is clearly connected to the argument.

Includes at least two specific moments from the book. Connection to the argument is present, but could be stronger.

Evidence is vague, summarizes the plot without connecting to the argument, or is limited to one weak example.

No text evidence, or the evidence is inaccurate.

Analysis & Interpretation

Explains how and why the evidence supports the thesis. Shows original thinking about what the book means.

Some analysis is present, but it relies more on summary than interpretation.

Mostly summarizes the book. Little attempt to explain what the evidence means.

No analysis. Response retells the plot only.

Organization & Clarity

Writing is well-organized with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. Ideas flow logically.

Organization is mostly clear, though transitions may be weak or the conclusion underdeveloped.

The organization is hard to follow. Ideas jump around or lack a clear structure.

No clear organization. Difficult to follow.

Writing Conventions/MLA Format

Few or no errors in grammar, spelling, or punctuation. Writing is polished. Heading, title, font, spacing, and margins all follow MLA guidelines. 

Some errors, but they do not interfere with understanding. Most MLA requirements are met with only minor errors (e.g. spacing or heading slightly off).

Frequent errors that occasionally distract from the meaning. Some MLA elements are present but several requirements are missing or incorrect.

Numerous errors make the writing difficult to understand. Little to no attempt to follow MLA format.