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Essay Evaluation Standards

This is page which shows the areas in which your essays will be evaluated. You will want to keep these items in mind as you write and revise your essays.

Commend

• Thesis/focus well-defined _____
• Well-stated arguments_____
• Vivid/effective examples_____
• Use of specific detail_____
• Good internal logic_____
• Well-structured/organized_____
• Good intro/conclusion_____
• Clear/well-written_____
• Creative/lively style_____
• Fine command of topic_____
• Superb synthesis skills_____
• Well-documented_____

Suggestions

• Need Clearer focus_____
• Need deeper analysis_____
• Give more examples_____
• Use more detail_____
• Check contradictions_____
• Rethink organization_____
• Rework intro/conclusion_____
• Fix awkward language_____
• Adjust tone or mood_____
• Fact/concept errors_____
• Consult more sources_____
• Cite sources_____
• Fix grammar/syntax_____

Recommend rewrite_____

Additional comments:

[Adapted from: Robert E. Weir. "Empowering Students While Cutting Corners: Efficient Grading of History Essays." Perspectives: Newsletter of the American Historical Association 31,3 (March 1993): 3-6.]

You may also wish to read about writing effective examination essays.

Send your questions about these evaluation standards to owenjack@isu.edu, or you may send a message now. Please include your name and e-mail address in the body of your message.

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Editorial alterations and additions copyright (C) 1995.
J. B. Owens
All rights reserved.

Revised:  26 August 1996

URL:  http://www.isu.edu/~owenjack/eval.html