CATEGORY	REQUIREMENTS	POINTS POSSIBLE	POINTS EARNED
Thesis & Argument	Thesis statement should be clear, concise, and point to an argument or claim made about the research. Claim should be compelling, focused, specific, and arguable.	20
Examples & Evidence	Ample, relevant, concrete evidence and specific examples directly related to the topic as outlined in the thesis statement. Each piece of evidence needs to clearly support and further develop the argument of the paper.	20
Synthesis of Research	Research should include multiple, reliable sources from various formats (six sources total; electronic, academic, hands-on, primary sources, interviews, historical, etc.) which should be assessed critically throughout the paper.	20
Logic & Organization	Should thoroughly develop ideas and organize them logically within paragraphs and connect them with highly effective transitions. Should have clear and logically consistent organization relating all ideas together.	10
Style & Control of Language	Should demonstrate outstanding control of language, effective word choice and sentence variety. Should also maintain a constant tone throughout the paper. The language of the paper should also clearly demonstrate awareness of a wide, formal, and academic audience.	10
Citations, Mechanics, & Grammar	Research and examples should be appropriately quoted, paraphrased, and cited in MLA format. Grammar, spelling, and other mechanics should be proofread and correct.	10
Requirements of Assignment	Basic requirements of the assignment should be met -- word count, number of sources, etc.	10

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