"This I Believe" rubric (evaluation guide)
Originality and specificity Essay asserts a significant, specific belief that becomes convincing because of the personal details presented in its support. Point is clear but may need to be supported more concretely to make it interesting and convincing. You are on the brink of  moving beyond common knowledge and generalities.
Voice Writer consistently uses vivid and concrete descriptions, surprising metaphors, and stylish sentences to create an engaging voice. Although the paper has its interesting moments, it needs a more vivid style and voice.  Try the techniques we worked on in class to develop a more personal or sophisticated style.
Organization The essay flows smoothly and may contain little surprises or dramatic moments that support the paper's point. The introduction makes me want to listen and the conclusion sticks in my mind. The essay is put together in an orderly way with a clear beginning, middle, and end.  You need to jazz up the intro and the conclusion to engage me and you might want to think about whether your material is presented in the most interesting order possible. What's the single point this essay expresses? Can you make everything in the essay contribute to that point in an orderly way? What fresh insight does your essay offer your reader?
Sentence structure Sentences show a sense of rhythm and exhibit grace. Sentences get the job done, but leave me a little sleepy. Grammatical problems leave me confused and annoyed.
Vocabulary and "confusable" words Vocabulary is appropriate for the audience and more--some words are used in such an apt or interesting way that they make me stop in admiration. There are no "confusable word" errors in this piece. Vocabulary is fine, but it reminds me of plain vanilla ice cream. The "confusable word" errors are distracting and even distasteful. (I'm thinking about ice cream topped by a little heap of dead flies!) Your voice may need to adjust itself to its audience. And/or you may need to do some editing to clear up errors. Back to the drawing board (or computer screen) with you.
Presentation Essay is 3 pages typed and double-spaced in Time-Roman 12 pt.  and follows class manuscript standards as outlined in the policy section. It is submitted with a complete and substantial cover memo and any other listed materials. Essay is at least 2 pages typed and double-spaced in Times-Roman 12 pt. and follows class manuscript standards as outlined in the policy section. It is submitted with the required cover memo. What happened?