10 Points Off All Essays Turned In Late - Due Date: 11/7/08

CATEGORY

4

3

2

1

Focus on Topic

There is one clear,

well-focused topic.

Main idea stands out

and is supported

by detailed information.

Main idea is clear

but the supporting

information is general.

Main idea is somewhat clear but there is a need for more supporting information.

The main idea is not clear. There is a seemingly random collection of information.

Grammar & Spelling

Writer makes no errors

in grammar or spelling

that distract the reader

from the content.

Writer makes 1-2 errors in grammar or spelling that distract the reader from the content.

Writer makes 3-4 errors in grammar or spelling that distract the reader from the content.

Writer makes more than 4 errors in grammar or spelling that distract the reader from the content.

Capitalization & Punctuation

Writer makes no errors

in capitalization or punctuation,

so the paper is exceptionally

easy to read.

Writer makes 1 or 2 errors in capitalization or punctuation, but the paper is still easy to read.

Writer makes 3-4 errors in capitalization and/or punctuation that catch the reader's attention and interrupt the flow.

Writer makes more than 4 errors in capitalization and/or punctuation that catch the reader's attention and greatly interrupt the flow.

Title and Heading

Writer includes proper heading

and title.

Writer includes proper heading, but the paper has no title.

Writer includes a title, but not the proper heading

Writer does not include proper heading and title.

Length

Writer stays within the

500 to 750-word range

stated in the contest rules.

Writer goes either above or below the 500 to 750-word range stated in the contest rules.

Following Contest Writing Instructions

Writer follows the theme: "You Will Be My Witness."

Writer does not follow the theme