| 1. IRC Planning Outline I, R1-R3 (a/b), C | All lines complete; 3 distinct reasons; concrete details in all 6 sub-points. | Outline mostly complete (4-5 sub-points); minor overlap between reasons. | Incomplete outline; missing reasons or sub-points; vague bullet notes. | Minimal notes ___ / 4 |
| 2. Purpose & Focus Prompt / Central Idea | Clear central idea directly addressing the prompt topic maintained throughout entire essay. | Focus is clear; minor drift into personal narrative without explanatory connection. | General discussion of topic; loses sight of explanatory purpose. | Off-topic/unclear ___ / 4 |
| 3. Organization & IRC Alignment Structure & Transitions | Multi-paragraph draft matching outline; strong intro, body paragraphs, conclusion, & transitions. | Noticeable paragraph breaks matching plan; basic transitions (First, Also); distinct ending. | Uneven paragraphing; missing conclusion or body paragraphs; weak flow. | Single text block ___ / 4 |
| 4. Evidence & Elaboration Examples & Explanation | Thoroughly explains each reason with vivid examples, reasoning, and reflective commentary. | Adequate support for reasons; some points are brief or list-like but support thesis. | Sparse detail; claims asserted without explanation; underdeveloped paragraphs. | Minimal support ___ / 4 |
| 5. Conventions & Mechanics Grammar, Spelling, Punct. | Strong command of Grade 8 conventions; varied sentence structure; few minor errors. | Minor convention errors that do not impede meaning; mostly complete sentences. | Frequent run-ons, fragments, or spelling errors that distract reader. | Severe errors ___ / 4 |