new study

Category

Unacceptable (0-1)

Needs Improvement (2-3)

Good (4)

Excellent (5)

Total Possible Points

Purpose of narrative

The events chosen are not related to the topic provided and show no clear connection to each other

The events chosen are minimally related to the topic provided and/or are not developed sufficiently

The events chosen are related to the topic provided, are clearly connected to each other, but require further development and/or elaboration

The events chosen are explicitly related to the topic provided, and are clearly connected to each other in their sequence as well as their importance

5

Structure and Organization

Disorganized, illogical and/or non-sequential narrative that confuses the reader and makes the topic feel insignificant

Lacks firm organization and/or logic, but is coherent enough that the reader can discern the overall sequence of events; little understanding of how the sequence of events contributes to their significance

Well-organized and logical, coherent sequencing of events, adjustments in the placement of events may be needed in order to enhance the reader's understanding of the significance of the events described

Well-organized and logical, coherent sequencing of events that contributes to the reader's understanding of the significance of the events being narrated

5

Clarity

Vague or unclear writing; reader cannot understand the personal significance of the narrative

Writing is ambiguous in a few areas; overall content contains muddy and vague descriptions that are inadequate to the topic chosen

Phrasing and word choice are mostly effective; overall content is descriptive, but may need refinement in length, precision, and/or accuracy

Syntax is very clear and concise; descriptions are vivid, precise, and accurate without being florid or wordy

5

Mechanics

Incorrect spelling, punctuation, capitalization, and use of standard English grammar hinders understanding

Several instances of incorrect spelling, punctuation, capitalization, and usage of standard English grammar

Few instances of incorrect spelling, punctuation, capitalization, and usage of standard English grammar

No or very few instances of incorrect spelling, punctuation, capitalization, and usage of standard English grammar

5

Detail and Description

Minimal description and detail provided; reader not engaged, writing shows no demonstration of an understanding of the significance of including detail and description

Description and detail are present, but not strategic; reader may not fully understand the importance and significance of the detail provided as it relates to the overall narrative

Appropriate description and detail are included; significance of the details provided are clear to the reader, but more work needs to be done to engage the reader's interests and emotions through word and image

Description and detail are vivid and precise, targeting the reader's emotional and intellectual response; narrative techniques employed increase the reader's understanding of the significance of the event described

5