Writing Assessment Rubric


6-Point Rubric

Note: Unlike other traits, Conventions depends somewhat on grade level. Use the rubric with the punctuation, capitalization, grammar and usage required of your grade level.


Writing Assessment Rubric - Conventions

Number

Level

Looks Like

1

Not Yet

Numerous errors in usage, spelling, capitalization, and punctuation repeatedly distract the reader and make the text difficult to read. In fact, the severity and frequency of errors are so overwhelming that the reader finds it difficut to focus on the message and must reread for meaning. The writing is characterized by:

  • very limited skill in using conventions.
  • basic punctuation (including end-of-sentence punctuation) that tends to be omitted, haphazard, or incorrect.
  • frequent spelling errors that significantly impair readability.
  • paragraph breaks that may be highly irregular or so frequent (every sentence) that they bear no relation to the organization of the text.
  • capitalization that appears to be random.
  • a need for extensive editing.

2

Emerging

The writing demonstrates little control of standard writing conventions. Frequent, significant errors impede readability. The writing is characterized by:

  • little control over basic conventions.
  • many end-of-sentence punctuation errors; internal punctuation contains frequent errors.
  • spelling errors that frequently distract the reader; misspelling of common words often occurs.
  • paragraphs that often run together or begin in ineffective places.
  • capitalization that is inconsistent or often incorrect.
  • errors in grammar and usage that interfere with readability and meaning.
  • substantial need for editing.

3

Developing

The writing demonstrates limited control of standard writing conventions (e.g., punctuation, spelling, capitalization, paragraph breaks, grammar and usage). Errors begin to impede readability. The writing is characterized by:

  • some control over basic conventions; the text may be too simple to reveal mastery.
  • end-of-sentence punctuation that is usually correct; however, internal punctuation contains frequent errors.
  • spelling errors that distract the reader; misspelling of common words occurs.
  • paragraphs that sometimes run together or begin at ineffective places.
  • capitalization errors.
  • errors in grammar and usage that do not block meaning but do distract the reader.
  • significant need for editing.

4

Competent

The writing demonstrates control of standard writing conventions (e.g., punctuation, spelling, capitalization, paragraph breaks, grammar and usage). Minor errors, while perhaps noticeable, do not impede readabiilty. The writing is characterized by:

  • Control over conventions used, although a wide range is not demonstrated.
  • correct end-of-sentence punctuation; internal punctuation my sometimes be incorrect.
  • spelling that is usually correct, especially on common words.
  • basically sound paragraph breaks that reinforce the organizational structure.
  • correct capitalization; errors, if any, are minor.
  • occasional lapses in correct grammar and usage; problems are not severe enough to distort meaning or confuse the reader.
  • moderate need for editing.

5

Experienced

The writing demonstrates strong control of standard writing conventions (e.g., punctuation, spelling, capitalization, paragraph breaks, grammar and usage) and uses them effectivly to enhance communication. Errors are so few and so minor that they do not impede readability. The writing is characterized by:

  • strong control of conventions.
  • effective use of punctuation that guides the reader through the text.
  • correct spelling, even of more difficult words.
  • paragraph breaks that reinforce the organizational structure.
  • correct capitalization; errors, if any, are minor.
  • correct grammar and usage that contribute to clarity and style.
  • skill in using a wide range of conventions in a sufficiently long and complex piece.
  • little need for editing.

6

WOW!

The writing demonstrates exceptionally strong control of standard writing conventions (e.g., punctuation, spelling, capitalization, paragraph breaks, grammar and usage) and uses them effectivly to enhance communication. Errors are so few and so minor that they do not impede readability. The writing is characterized by:

  • strong control of conventions; manipulation of conventions may occur for stylistic effect..
  • strongeffective use of punctuation that guides the reader through the text.
  • correct spelling, even of more difficult words.
  • paragraph breaks that reinforce the organizational structure.
  • correct capitalization; errors, if any, are minor.
  • correct grammar and usage that contribute to clarity and style.
  • skill in using a wide range of conventions in a sufficiently long and complex piece.
  • little need for editing.

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