A Paper

An A paper has a clearly defined topic. The topic is thoroughly, but concisely developed in the paper. The literature cited represents the current state of knowledge. The presentation of the current state of knowledge regarding the topic is insightful and original. The paper does not digress from the main points presented in the abstract. The paper will demonstrate that the author has considered alternatives or counter-arguments to their point of view. The paper documents research in the proper manner and shows a near mastery of scientific citation. Practically all statements requiring citation are properly referenced. The paper rewords interpretations of other researchers. The paper is almost completely free of typographical, spelling and grammatical errors. It follows the guidelines on the course web site.

B Paper

A B paper has a clearly defined topic. The topic is developed concisely and with some depth. The literature cited is more than adequate. The presentation of the current state of knowledge regarding the topic is original, but may not be insightful. The paper may digress on occasion from the main points presented in the abstract. The paper may show signs that the author has considered alternatives or counter-arguments to their point of view. The paper documents research in generally the proper manner, but some of the cited research is not the correct source. Some statements requiring citation are not properly referenced. The paper rewords some interpretations of other researchers, but also directly quotes others. The paper will show ordinary care in avoiding typographical, spelling, and grammatical errors. It follows the guidelines on the course web site.

C Paper

A C paper has a recognizable topic, but it is not clearly defined. The topic is developed logically but the foundation is incomplete or lacks depth and integration. The ideas discussed are merely reported; insight into the topic is not evident. Literature cited is adequate at best. The author does not consider counterpoints. The paper reveals a lack of understanding of the conventions of scientific citation and proper documentation. Many statements requiring support lack references. The paper contains many direct quotations from other authors. The paper shows some serious typographical, spelling and grammar errors. It loosely follows the guidelines on the course web site.

D Paper

A D paper has a vaguely defined topic and fails to articulate a clear direction and treats the topic lightly. Substantive literature support is lacking. The paper has little depth and demonstrates that the author lacks understanding of the topic. Knowledge of proper scientific citation is lacking. Spelling and grammar show signs of reckless disregard for accuracy and the required guidelines on the course web page.

F Paper An F paper is so deficient in some aspect that credit cannot be given.

*developed, with permission, from materials given by Eric Eliason and Pam Kittleson.