How Writing Assignments Are Graded

Evaluating Writing Assignments

Formal writing assignments (i.e., compositions and essays) are graded on the following criteria.
  1. Preparation and Editing. Has the writer used planning and editing guides as assigned? Has the writer presented information clearly? Has the writer carefully checked and corrected subject / verb agreements, adjective / noun agreements, and gender agreements? Has the writer carefully checked and corrected spelling (including accents)?
  2. Vocabulary. Is the vocabulary sufficiently precise, elaborate, and appropriate for the topic, considering the course level?
  3. Grammar and Syntax. Is the writer adequately applying the grammatical rules s/he has studied? Is the syntax sufficiently complex and French? Has the writer used French sentence structure learned so far, or do sentences seem to be translated directly from English into French?  Do errors obscure meaning?
  4. Content and Style. Has the writer understood and addressed the topic assigned? Is the content interesting and rich enough for the student's level? Is the topic addressed in sufficient depth and detail? Do sentences (paragraphs, ideas) flow logically?  In specific writing genres (letters, essays, reviews, explications de texte, etc.), are specific organizational elements used appropriately (topic sentences, transitions, introductions, conclusions, salutations, etc.)? Does the writer show awareness of the real and/or implied reader's needs? Are tone and register appropriate to the writing sample and its reader?

Suggested Grading Grid

(1-10 points per category)
 
 
mid A
mid B
mid C
mid D
mid F
Preparation and Editing
9.5
8.5
7.5
6.5
5.5
Vocabulary
9.5
8.5
7.5
6.5
5.5
Grammar and Syntax
9.5
8.5
7.5
6.5
5.5
Content and Style
9.5
8.5
7.5
6.5
5.5

    Total: _______ / 40 = ________
 

Elementary-Level Classes

In elementary-level classes where writing assignments are relatively short and straight-forward, accuracy may be emphasized over content and organization:
(1-10 points in grammar and vocabulary; 1-5 points for organization and content)
 
 
mid A
mid B
mid C
mid D
mid F
Vocabulary
9.5
8.5
7.5
6.5
5.5
Grammar
9.5
8.5
7.5
6.5
5.5
Preparation, Organization, Content and Style
4.8
3.8
2.8
1.8
.8

    Total: _______ / 25 = ________
 

For Further Information

See Descriptive Grading of Compositions.

 

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