Grading Guidelines for Yes & Yes Pair of Essays "D" (61-70): The essays are 2-1/2 pages or 750 words in length (each) and are properly formatted. They indicate that the writer has read the first three chapters of Everything's an Argument and Martin Norden's essay and has viewed one of the first three assigned films. The majority of the words in them are spelled correctly, the diction more often than not is suitable, and the syntax and punctuation generally are appropriate. A "C" (71-80) pair of essays fulfill the conditions stated above, the difference being that most of the words in them are spelled correctly, most of their diction is suitable, and the syntax and punctuation in most cases are appropriate. Each essay presents a thesis in accordance with the assignment, cites the Norden piece at least once (using MLA guidelines), bases its argument on facts and reason, and presents evidence in support of its thesis. A "B" (81-90) pair of essays fulfills the conditions stated above, the difference being that almost all of the words in them are spelled correctly, almost all of their diction is suitable, and the syntax and punctuation are almost always appropriate. Consisting of a topic and a comment, the thesis in each essay must be coherent and succinctly stated. In addition, the essays do not retell the film's story line; instead, each refers to the film just enough to support its main claim. Also, each essay is well organized, offers some background information to clarify its claim (here's where the Norden piece will prove useful), employs qualifiers to limit its claim, and offers rebuttals to (potential) contrary claims. A "B" pair of essays treats both the intended and the invoked readers consistently throughout. Four factors separate a "B" from an "A" (91-100) pair of essays. First, each essay integrates its elements so that, together, they read smoothly. Second, the writing in both pieces reveals some sensitivity to the nuances of language. Third, an "A" pair of essays addresses and satisfies the skeptical reader, someone who questions their claims and assesses their linkage of the claims and the supporting evidence. And fourth, an "A" pair of essays strives for a knowledgeable and scholarly tone, one that is simultaneously dispassionate and spirited. (While a thoughtful, systematic, and coordinated presentation of the evidence characterizes scholarly writing, it also should be spirited in its attempt to convince the reader.) In sum: an "A" pair of essays argues with equal conviction and competence on both sides of the same question. Remember to plan ahead: this assignment is due at the beginning of class Wednesday, October 23th. Back to top |
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