literature review

Criteria

10 points

8 points

6 points

4 points

0 points

Points Earned

Abstract

The abstract is a brief, focused description of the contents of the paper

Generally focused on the contents of the paper

Somewhat focused on a broad topic

Scattered, random writing without focus

N/A

Introduction

Clearly and concisely articulates the topic of study, states the research question(s) motivating the investigation, and discusses the theoretical/conceptual framework and historical background for the study

Discusses the topic of study, the research question(s), and the theoretical/ conceptual framework or historical background for the study

The topic of study and research question(s) are unclear. The framework and background for the study are vague

Unfocused and wandering discussion; missing multiple required elements

N/A

Discussion of Key Terms

Keywords and essential terms are clearly discussed and defined using direct support from authoritative sources on the topic; includes citations

Keywords and essential terms are clearly discussed and defined

Definitions of keywords and essential terms are ambiguous or vague

Missing multiple required elements

N/A

40 points

30 points

20 points

10 points

0 points

Review of the Literature

Relevant research findings are tightly synthesized and organized by themes/categories; uses a balanced amount of direct quotation; includes citations to support findings

Research findings are organized by themes/categories; uses direct quotations and includes citations to support findings

Research findings are summarized by study, rather than synthesized by themes/categories; direct quotations are used either too heavily or too sparingly

Fails to include relevant research or includes findings unrelated to the topic; sources of argumentation and support unclear

N/A

10 points

8 points

6 points

4 points

0 points

Summary/ Conclusion

Includes a focused summary of key findings from the review; gaps in the literature and recommendations for future research are clearly discussed

Includes a summary of key findings from the review; gaps in the literature and recommendations for future research are identified

Summary of key findings is unfocused or inconsistent with the review; gaps in the literature or recommendations for future research are vague

Unfocused and wandering summary; missing multiple required elements

N/A

Grammar, Usage, & Mechanics

0–2 errors

3–4 errors

5 errors

6–8 errors

More than 8 errors

APA Format

0–2 APA errors

3–5 APA errors

6–7 APA errors

8–9 APA errors

More than 10 APA errors

Total:

Instructor Comments: