| Midterm and Final Paper MATRIX
Area Evaluated |
Possible Points |
| Content: The paper . . . (15 total points) | |
| 1. Addresses the topic or question | 3 |
| 2. Accurately presents assigned authors’ viewpoints | 3 |
| 3. Provides sufficient textual evidence to support the argument | 4 |
| 4. Topic engages the reader (compelling, focused, specific and arguable) | 5 |
|
Structure: (31 total points) |
|
| 1. Abstract
2. The introduction . . . |
3 |
| a. Set the context – provide general information about the main idea, explaining the situation so the reader can make sense of the topic and the claims you make and support | 1 |
| b. State why the main idea is important – tell the reader why s/he should care and keep reading. Your goal is to create a compelling, clear, and convincing essay people will want to read and act upon | 2 |
| c. State your thesis/claim – compose a sentence or two stating the position you will support with logos (sound reasoning: induction, deduction), pathos (balanced emotional appeal), and ethos (author credibility). | 2 |
| 3. The body contains a complete discussion and support | 8 |
| 4. Each paragraph . . . | |
| a. Includes a topic sentence | 3 |
| b. Develops one main idea | 3 |
| c. Has a transition sentence linking it to the next paragraph | 3 |
| 5. The conclusion . . . | |
| a. Recaps the thesis statement and the essay’s main points | 3 |
| b. Presents a closing statement of the writer’s position | 3 |
|
Organization and Development: (17 total points) |
|
| 1. The composition . . . | |
| a. Is logically organized | 5 |
| b. Structure matches purpose and audience | 4 |
| 2. Tone and Point of View . . . | |
| a. Is appropriate for audience | 4 |
| b. Respects topic | 4 |
|
Style/Conventions: (12 total points) |
|
| 1. Language is concise and precise | 2 |
| 2. Vocabulary range, accuracy and correct/effective word usage | 2 |
| 3. Free of misspellings | 2 |
| 4. Free of grammatical mistakes | 2 |
| 5. Complete and a variety of sentences structures | 2 |
| 6. Correct punctuation | 2 |
| Mechanics: (25 points) | |
| 1. Paper follows APA assigned style | 7 |
| 2. References cited correctly (APA style, etc.) | 10 |
| 3. Paper supported by appropriate research | 6 |
| 4. Appropriate format (font size, spacing, etc.) | 2 |
| Total Points | 100 |
