writing

Analyzing a Primary Source Rubric Name ________________________ Date _______ Class ____________________________________

Exemplary Adequate Minimal Attempted Analysis of Document

Offers in-depth analysis and interpretation of the document; distinguishes between fact and opinion; explores reliability of author; compares and contrasts author's point of view with views of others

Offers accurate analysis of the document

Demonstrates only a minimal understanding of the document

Reiterates one or two facts from the document but does not offer any analysis or interpretation of the document

Knowledge of Historical Context

Shows evidence of thorough knowledge of period in which source was written; relates primary source to specific historical context in which it was written

Uses previous general historical knowledge to examine issues included in document

Limited use of previous historical knowledge without complete accuracy

Barely indicates any previous historical knowledge

Identification of Key Issues/Main Points

Identifies the key issues and main points included in the primary source; shows understanding of author's goal(s)

Identifies most but not all of the key issues and main points in the primary source

Describes in general terms one issue or concept included in the primary source

Deals only briefly and vaguely with the key issues and main points in the document

Resources Uses several outside resources in addition to primary source

Uses 1–2 outside resources in addition to primary source

Relies heavily on the material/information provided

Relies exclusively on the material/information provided; no evidence of outside resources

Identification of Literary Devices

Analyzes author's use of literary devices such as repetition, irony, analogy, and sarcasm

Mentions author's use of literary devices but does not develop fully

Does not discuss author's use of literary devices

Does not discuss author's use of literary devices

Understanding of Audience

Shows strong understanding of author's audience

Shows some understanding of author's audience

Shows little understanding of author's audience

Shows no understanding of author's audience

Analyzing a Primary Source Evaluation Form Name ________________________ Date _______ Class ____________________________________

Exemplary Adequate Minimal Attempted Analysis of Document

Knowledge of Historical Context

Identification of Key Issues/Main Points Resources

Identification of Literary Devices

Understanding of Audience

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