B.E.S.T. Writing Rubric — Argumentation, Grades 7-10

4 points

Position is focused and consistently maintained, with effective organizational structure, purposeful transitional strategies, and effective introduction and conclusion.

3 points

Position is focused and generally maintained, using logical organizational structure with purposeful transitional strategies and sufficient introduction and conclusion.

2 points

Position may be unclear or loosely related, with inconsistent organizational structure, limited transitions, and weak introduction and conclusion.

1 point

Position may be absent or confusing, with little to no organizational structure, absent or confusing transitions, and ineffective introduction and conclusion.

4 points

Thorough understanding of topic, with effective elaboration, smoothly integrated evidence, fully addressed counterclaims, and appropriate citations.

3 points

Logical development demonstrates understanding, with adequate elaboration, relevant, integrated evidence, sufficiently addressed counterclaims, and appropriate citations.

2 points

Partial understanding of topic, with ineffective elaboration, partially integrated evidence, insufficiently addressed counterclaims, and lacking appropriate citations.

1 point

Lack of topic understanding, with confusing or absent elaboration, vague or confusing evidence, absent or confusing counterclaims, and lacking appropriate citations.

4 points

Strong academic vocabulary, varied sentence structure, consistent command of conventions, and strengthening tone/voice.

3 points

Clear academic vocabulary, varied sentence structure, grade-appropriate conventions, and appropriate tone/voice.

2 points

Basic vocabulary, simple sentence structure, inconsistent use of conventions, and inconsistent tone/voice.

1 point

Vague or confusing vocabulary, simplistic or confusing sentences, severe errors in conventions, and inappropriate tone/voice.