Writing Checklist/Definition Essay Rubric:

  1. Is the term fully and clearly defined in the introduction without using phrases like "the dictionary says" or "according to Webster's"?
  2. Does the author use a clear organizational pattern?
  3. Is the author's purpose clear?
  4. Is the author's tone clear?
  5. Is the author's intended audience clear? (Not just writing for teacher/assignment)
  6. Is the argument behind the definition persuasive?
  7. Is the definition presented through clear thinking and logic?
  8. Does the essay include appropriate and ample evidence and examples that help define the term?
  9. Is the style (diction, sentence structure, language) mature, refined, sophisticated, and polished?
  10. Has the essay been carefully proofread? Is it free from grammatical/mechanical errors?
  11. Is the essay at least three, complete, full-length pages?
  12. Does the essay meet MLA format requirements?