Rubric for Written Communication (Graduate)

Graduate

Line of Reasoning * Organization and Structure Content Language/Prose/Syntax
4
(Advanced)

1. Thesis is highly refined and well developed.

2. Argument is complex and coherent and demonstrates a strong line of logical reasoning supported by evidence.

Organization of ideas/information is highly advanced and well organized.

1. Synthesizes original insight into the content.

2. Highly developed argument provides innovative solution to a well-defined problem.

3. Demonstrates application of the solution.

Ideas expressed in professional and technical language appropriate to the discipline; complex ideas are expressed clearly.
3
(Competent)

1. Composes a well-defined thesis that is supported by coherent and relevant arguments.

2. Argument is coherent and develops a clear line of logical reasoning.

Organization of ideas/information is well planned and organized; structure enhances the message or argument.

1. Exhibits original insight into the content.

2. Content illuminates the argument and/or message.

Uses grammatically correct prose that is highly appropriate to the audience; paper successfully utilizes complex sentence structures; prose is articulate and sophisticated.
2
(Emerging)

1. Constructs an identifiable thesis with some gaps or inconsistencies in reasoning.

2. Minor gaps in logic but the overall argument is linear and coherent

Some organizational problems evident.

1. Content is adequately addressed.

2. Content generally supports main argument.

Minor problems with grammar or punctuation, but sentences generally make sense; sentence structure is simplistic; prose may be conversational or somewhat inappropriate for purpose of the assignment or the audience.
1
(Beginning)

1. Thesis is weak, unclear or too broad for assignment, but has some relevance to the body of essay or presentation.

2. Paper utilizes only marginally coherent set of ideas; connections between some ideas and arguments are missing or underdeveloped.

Some attempt at organizing ideas/information but reasoning for that ordering is not apparent.

1. Content is only superficially addressed.

2. Content does not fully support main argument.

Exhibits grammatical problems but overall meaning of sentences is not totally obscured; prose may not reflect an understanding of standard English or other language used; may lack an understanding of the purpose of the assignment or the audience.

* This column is used to simultaneously assess critical thinking

Download PDF: Written Communication Rubric (Graduate)