Proficient:
-title
-indent paragraph(s)
-topic sentence
-at least four supporting details
-ending sentence
-uses SEVERAL deatils and CLEARLY paints a picture in the mind of the reader
-no spelling, punctuation, or capitalization errors
-no errors in grammar
-uses complete sentences and varies sentence lengths

Very Good:
-title
-indent paragraph(s)
-topic sentence
-at least four supporting details
-ending sentence
-includes MANY details and creates a well-developed paragraph
-no or one spelling, punctuation, or capitalization error
-no or one error in grammar
-uses complete sentences and varies sentence lengths

Good:
-title
-indent paragraph(s)
-topic sentence
-at least 4 supporting details
-ending sentence
-includes SOME details and overall creates a fairly well-developed paragraph
-no or few spelling, punctuation, or capitalization errors
-no or few errors in grammar
-generally uses simple sentence stucture

Satisfactory:
-title
-indent paragraph(s)
-topic sentence
-at least 4 supporting details
-ending sentence
-no or few spelling, punctuation, or capitalization errors
-creates an fairly well-developed paragraph
-no or few errors in grammar

*A student may still receive a grade of "satisfactory" if ONE of the following is found:
-no title
-paragraphs are not indented
-no topic sentence
-one supporting detail is missing
-no ending sentence
-may begin some sentences the same way (for example- My dog..., My dog..., My dog...)

The teacher will provide feedback and make suggestions for improving the assignment.

Needs Improvement:
-poorly focused on the topic
-ideas are unclear
-few details are given
-frequent use of fragments or run-on sentences
-sentences are difficult to understand
-frequent errors in grammar usage, spelling, capitalization, and punctuation make understanding difficult or impossible

*Any student who receives a grade of "needs improvement" may redo the assignment to receive a grade of at least "satisfactory".