B.E.S.T. Writing Rubric — Argumentation, Grades 4-6

4 points

Claim is focused and consistently maintained. Effective organizational structure. Varied transitional strategies. Effective introduction and conclusion.

3 points

Claim is focused and generally maintained. Logical organizational structure. Varied transitional strategies. Sufficient introduction and conclusion.

2 points

Claim may be unclear or loosely related. Inconsistent organizational structure. Limited transitions. Weak introduction and conclusion.

1 point

Claim may be absent or confusing. Little to no organizational structure. Absent or confusing transitions. Ineffective introduction and conclusion.

4 points

Skillful development demonstrates thorough understanding of the topic. Effective elaboration may include original student writing combined with paraphrasing. Smoothly integrated, relevant evidence from multiple sources lends credibility. Evidence is appropriately cited.

3 points

Logical development of ideas demonstrates understanding of the topic. Adequate elaboration may include a combination of original student writing. Relevant, integrated evidence from multiple sources lends credibility. Evidence is appropriately cited.

2 points

Development may demonstrate partial or incomplete understanding of the topic. Elaboration may attempt to develop the argument but may rely heavily on sources. Evidence may be partially integrated and/or related to the topic. Lacks appropriate citations.

1 point

Response may demonstrate lack of understanding of the topic. Elaboration may consist of confusing ideas or lack of elaborative techniques. Evidence from sources may be absent, vague, and/or confusing. Lacks appropriate citations.

4 points

Integration of academic vocabulary strengthens and furthers ideas. Skillful use of varied sentence structure contributes to fluidity of ideas. Demonstrates consistent command of grammar, punctuation, capitalization, and spelling. Tone and/or voice strengthens the overall argument.

3 points

Integration of academic vocabulary demonstrates clear expression of ideas. Sentence structure is varied and demonstrates grade-appropriate language facility. Demonstrates grade-appropriate command of standard English conventions. Tone and/or voice is appropriate for the overall argument.

2 points

Vocabulary and word choice may be imprecise or basic. Sentence structure may be partially controlled, somewhat simplistic. Inconsistent use of correct grammar, punctuation, capitalization, and/or spelling. Tone and/or voice may be inconsistent.

1 point

Vocabulary and word choice may be vague, unclear, or confusing. Sentence structure may be simplistic or confusing. Use of grammar, punctuation may contain severe errors, often obscuring meaning. Tone and/or voice may be inappropriate.