Criteria for Evaluating Essays
Here is a set of criteria that will form the basis for evaluating written assignments.
Substance (75 marks)
· The research paper provides evidence of critical thinking and analysis as well as synthesis of researched information throughout, and presents a logical and persuasive argument.
· Research sources are relevant, current, and credible. They are clearly documented in the paper.
· The introduction offers a sense of direction for the paper and presents a clear thesis statement to the reader.
· The body develops the necessary aspects of the main idea and provides examples, support, or illustration for each aspect of the main idea.
· The conclusion summarizes the main points and ties them to the thesis; it also presents an impact statement and/or suggests direction for future research.
Writing Style and Format (25 marks)
· Paragraphs are unified, developed, and coherent, with transitions between ideas.
· Sentences are grammatically correct; words are chosen for accuracy and impact.
· The writing follows the conventions of spelling and mechanics (punctuation, etc.).
· The format follows the APA documentation style accurately and consistently.