Writer: ______________________

Evaluator: ______________________

I.  ARGUMENT:  Evaluate from 1-5, where 1=needs reworking, 3=needs refining, and 5=excellent

A.  Writer clearly states thesis or main argument to be developed in the essay___
B.  Writer indicates why that thesis is worth exploring or trying to prove (i.e., the writer shows how the thesis will, if proven, help illuminate the work or works in question)___
C.  Writer uses textual evidence effectively in supporting the thesis___
D.  Writer successfully avoids summarizing the plot of the work(s), instead using evidence from the work(s) to demonstrate his or her main argument___

II.  STYLE:  Evaluate from 1-5, where 1=needs reworking, 3=needs refining, and 5=excellent

A. Each paragraph begins with a strong and clearly worded topic sentence, which orients the reader within the ongoing argument and provides a transition from what has come before___
B.  Words are carefully chosen and refer accurately to the ideas intended___
C.  Level of diction is appropriate to audience___
D.  Diction is lively___
E.  Syntax is smooth; good flow between sentences___
F.  Emphasis falls on important ideas___
G.  Sentences are varied and appropriate to audience___
H.  Sentences are appropriately concise___

III.  GRAMMAR/MECHANICS:  Evaluate from 1-5, where 1=needs reworking, 3=needs refining, and 5=excellent

A.  Grammar is correct___
B.  Punctuation is correct___
C.  Spelling is correct; no typos___
D.  Language is idiomatically correct___

Provide a list here of typos or grammatical, punctuation, or spelling errors that appear to be common in the writer's essay, indicating where in the paper those problems can be found:
 
 
 
 
 

IV.  COMMENTS:  On the back of this sheet, discuss what, in your view, the writer did well, as well as what the writer needs to work on in revising his or her paper.