Category: Writing

For the instructor to post writing resources.

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Writing Expectations by Grade

A level

Exceeds many expectations for college-level writing and encourages the reader to engage with the author’s argument. The reader appreciates the author’s style and clarity.

  • Professional format (MLA); descriptive title; relatively free of mechanical errors; varied use of sentence structure for positive impact
  • Central idea is clearly defined and well developed; essay has clear purpose; demonstrates thorough knowledge of the text
  • Demonstrates close reading and analysis by using abundant meaningful evidence; examples that are vivid and specific
  • Logically organized, cohesive, easily followed; effective transitions;
  • Tone is clear, consistent, and appropriate for the intended audience

B-level

Meets expectations for college level writing and the language generally does not impede the reader from engaging with the author’s argument.

  • Paper has logical structure with some ambiguities or irrelevances; easily followed; basic transitions;
  • Standard format; uses complex sentences with few mechanical errors
  • Vocabulary is varied, subject-specific and appropriate; writer’s tone emerges and is generally appropriate for the audience;
  • Central idea and purpose are generally clear throughout the essay;
  • Evidence of critical careful thought and analysis; relevant supporting examples.

C-level

Meets some expectations for college level writing but the reader can be distracted from the argument.

  • There is some level of organization though digressions, ambiguities, irrelevances are distracting; Paper is difficult to follow with some ineffective transitions;
  • Inconsistent format; use of compound sentences; distracting mechanics;
  • Vocabulary is used correctly though sentences may be simple; infrequently uses subject-specific language correctly; writer’s tone exhibits some level of audience sensitivity;
  • The central idea is expressed although it may be too broad, overly general, or vague; some sense of purpose is maintained throughout the essay; some evidence of careful critical thought; some evidence is offered although it is often general.