Grading Criteria

College Essay Criteria

Intro

Does the essay start with an engaging introduction that inspires curiosity while also establishing a clear direction?

Topic

Does the essay focus on a well-defined topic that relays the writer’s character?

Detail

Does the essay elaborate on the topic with relevant, convincing details?

Imagery

Does the essay show (rather than tell) why the topic is important to the author?

Conclusion

Does the essay end with a conclusion that ties together the essay (both answers the essay question and finalizes a statement on the writer’s character)?

Pacing

Does the essay balance the various purposes of the essay through attention to pacing?

Syntax & Paragraphing

Does the essay use effective syntax and paragraphing that both maintain coherence and establish sequence within and between paragraphs?

Diction

Does the essay use precise vocabulary that is appropriate for the essay's audience?

Sentence Structure & Variety

Does the essay use a variety of clear, correct sentence structures?

Voice

Does the essay reveal a distinctive "voice" that consistently conveys the personality of the writer through subjects, tones, and narrative techniques that are convincing and appropriate for the audience?

Conventions

Does the essay follow proper conventions and formatting?