Close reading grading rubric

A

Includes a well developed thesis statement that puts forth an argument about the text (a major claim/thesis statement) that goes beyond summary of the text

Paragraphs each include a minor claim/topic sentence that connects back to and supports the argument of the major claim/thesis statement

Paragraphs include closely analyzed citations that support the minor claims

Paragraphs progress in a logical order so that the minor claims support the thesis statement

B

A major claim/thesis statement may be present but need further development

Paragraphs are mostly organized according to minor claims/topic sentences, but some may need further revision

Paragraphs include analysis of textual evidence, but in some instances the analysis could go into further detail

There are problems in the logical progression of the argument through body paragraphs

C

A major claim/thesis statement is missing

Paragraphs are missing minor claims/topic sentences

Paragraphs summarize but do not analyze textual evidence

Paragraphs are not ordered in a logical progression to support the major claim argument

D/F

Paper fails to fulfill the assignment or is written on an inappropriate topic