Important critical essay

PUP 363: Critical Essay Grading Rubric

The following questions will be used to grade the critical essay assignment on Jane Jacob’s book:

1. How well does the student demonstrate a clear comprehension of the book? Did they cover the key points and main arguments made by Jacobs? Did they demonstrate that they actually read the book, or does it look like they just read the back cover? 2. Did they critically analyze Jacobs’ arguments in light of what was happening at the time it was published (1961), i.e. urban renewal and urban freeway building? Did they critically analyze the validity of Jacobs’ arguments in light of contemporary urban issues and urban planning practice? 3. How well-written is the paper? Is it free of editing errors? Is it well-organized, clear, and concise? Based on the assessment of these questions, one of the following scores will be assigned: 80: Top quality. Clearly demonstrates a solid comprehension of the book and provides a well-written critical analysis

of its historic and contemporary relevance, with adequate justification to support the critique. No editing errors

whatsoever. Direct quotes properly and consistently cited.

76: Excellent report. Clearly demonstrates a comprehension of the book and provides a good critical analysis of its

historic and contemporary relevance, with justification. Minor proofing/editing errors. Quotes cited (though

consistency in citing style may be needed).

72: Very good report. Clearly demonstrates a comprehension of the book and provides a decent critical

analysis, though with some room for elaboration or clearer justification. Minor proofreading/editing errors.

Citations for direct quotes used, but somewhat inconsistent.

68: Good report. Provides an overview of the book and an analysis of its relevance, but with opportunity for

elaboration and clearer justification. Some proofing & editing and/or content revision needed. Citations missing

for direct quotes.

64: Adequate report. Adequately covers some of the main points from the book and provides a critical analysis, but

certainly with opportunity for improvement and clearer justification. Proofing & editing and content revisions

needed. Citations needed for direct quotes.

60: Marginal report. Somewhat addresses the key points from the book and provides a partial critique, but with

definite revisions needed and clearer discussion and justification. Proofing and editing errors somewhat

distracting and in need of correction.

56: Inadequate report. Either does not demonstrate a clear comprehension of the material, does not summarize

the key points, or does not provide a critical assessment. Major revisions and elaboration needed. Proofing and

editing errors distracting and in need of significant correction.

48: Poor report. Student apparently did not read the book thoroughly or does not provide any critical analysis.

Major rewrite necessary. Proofing and editing errors very distracting.

<48: Unacceptable report. Student obviously did not read the book. Excessive editing errors.