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The Writing Proficiency
Requirement
Criteria for Granting Writing
Proficiency for a Student's Writing
1. The essay has a unifying idea or thesis that clearly addresses
the assignment.
The main idea is clearly stated or implied and is an appropriate response
to the topic. Focus on this idea is sharp throughout. There are no counterproductive
digressions or tangents.
2. The thesis is substantial and appropriately restricted.
The main idea is not unduly broad; moreover, it shows that the writer
has taken the challenge of the assignment seriously. There is evidence
of sound analytic and/or evaluative thinking.
3. The essay provides a thorough and well-supported discussion of its
thesis.
There are enough points to advance the discussion, and each point is well
developed. Evidence is given where appropriate, and, when offered, it
is detailed and specific. The student is clearly using the writing as
a tool to probe and comprehend the subject.
4. The essay has a logical or otherwise systematic structure.
There is a beginning, middle, and end. These parts are in proper proportion
to each other. The essay's points and subpoints are arranged according
to some plan. Order may be chronological, topical, spatial, or otherwise
logical, but there is a definite order that is appropriate to the nature
of the discussion. Moreover, the order chosen is not demonstrably inferior
to some other order that might have better highlighted the writer's ideas
and purposes.
5. The essay shows the writer's awareness of a rhetorical purpose appropriate
to the question chosen.
The essay persuades, informs, or explains as needed. Content, structure,
and language are well suited to the purpose.
6. The grammar, usage, spelling, punctuation, and reference form used
in the essay are at least as correct as is reasonable to expect in the
time given.
Errors in mechanics are minimal. If any elementary errors appear, they
are not sufficiently numerous or egregious to distract the reader. In
any case no more than a few errors are present in the essay.
7. The essay is written in a clear, concise style.
Vocabulary is appropriate and varied. Phrasing is clear and fresh, with
a minimum of clichés. There is no evidence of wordiness. Passive
voice is used only where appropriate (as in this sentence).
RHET/October 2001
Site
by: Andi Baruffi
Updated 10/12/07 by Robert Chester