| Claim & Thesis | | | | |
| Weight: 15 pts | Nuanced, arguable, and complex thesis statement that clearly defines a position and previews main points. | Clear and arguable thesis statement that takes a definite stance and addresses the prompt. | Thesis is present but may be simplistic, vague, or lack a clear arguable position. | Thesis is missing, unclear, or merely restates the prompt without taking a stance. |
| Evidence & Support | | | | |
| Weight: 20 pts | Abundant, high-quality evidence from credible, diverse sources. Integrated seamlessly into the text. | Sufficient evidence from credible sources. Quotes and facts are relevant and accurately cited. | Some evidence is present but may be repetitive, weak, or from questionable sources. | Little to no evidence provided. Support consists mostly of personal opinion or hearsay. |
| Analysis & Warrant | | | | |
| Weight: 20 pts | Insightful explanation of how evidence supports the claim. Connects specific details back to the thesis. | Logical explanation of the evidence. Clearly shows the connection between data and the claim. | Explanation is surface-level or repetitive. Fails to fully bridge the gap between evidence and thesis. | Minimal analysis. Writer assumes the evidence speaks for itself or provides unrelated commentary. |
| Counter-Claims | | | | |
| Weight: 20 pts | Fairly represents opposing views and provides a sophisticated rebuttal that strengthens the main argument. | Addresses a relevant counter-claim and provides a logical rebuttal using evidence. | Counter-claim is mentioned but not fully developed or the rebuttal is weak/unconvincing. | Ignores opposing views or dismisses them without evidence or logical reasoning. |
| Organization | | | | |
| Weight: 10 pts | Masterful flow. Sophisticated transitions and logical paragraphing enhance the reader's understanding. | Clear structure with an introduction, body, and conclusion. Effective use of transitions. | Organization is mostly logical but transitions may be formulaic or paragraphs may be disjointed. | Lack of clear structure. Ideas are jumbled, making the argument difficult to follow. |
| Style & Voice | | | | |
| Weight: 10 pts | Vivid, precise word choice. Maintains a formal, authoritative tone that engages the audience. | Appropriate word choice and formal academic tone throughout the essay. | Tone is inconsistent. Word choice is functional but lacks variety or precision. | Inappropriate or overly informal tone. Word choice is repetitive or incorrect. |
| Conventions | | | | |
| Weight: 5 pts | Virtually error-free grammar and mechanics. Correct MLA/APA formatting for all citations. | Few errors in grammar or punctuation. Citations are mostly correct and present. | Multiple errors that occasionally distract the reader. Citation formatting is inconsistent. | Errors significantly impede communication. Citations are missing or incorrect. |