Science Essay Evaluation Rubric     assignment # __________
Student Name: Score:
This analytic rubric is used to verify specific tasks performed when producing an essay. If the task has been successfully completed, all points are awarded. No points are awarded if the task is not complete.
CategoryScoring CriteriaPointsStudent
Evaluation
Teacher
Evaluation
Introduction
20 points
A thesis statement makes the purpose of the essay clear.
(Thesis statements do not begin, "this essay is about".)
10    
Background information is provided to establish the importance of the essay topic.
(Examples include definitions of key terms or a short outline of a complicated concept.)
10    
Report of
Research
30 points
Curriculum concepts for the topic are well covered.
(Curriculum concepts for each essay are found on the essay planning guide.)
10    
The essay demonstrates the application of the most current scientific information to the student's ideas about the topic.
(Your ideas must be included.)
10    
Information in the essay is presented in the student's own words, not "cut and pasted" from research sources.
(Any complex terms must be defined in the introduction.)
10    
Conclusion
20 points
Student's thoughts presented in the essay are summarized.
(This is your chance to emphasize the point of the essay.)
10    
The most important research findings are restated.
(What do you want the reader to remember?)
5    
No new information is introduced. 5    
Rewrite
30 points
The essay is typed using a standard 12 or 14 point font.
(If there is any question about what standard means - ask!)
10    
There are no "first person" statements in the essay.
(Such as "I" and "My".)
10    
There are no spelling errors or visible corrections.
(Proof-reading is required - even with spellcheck.)
5    
There are no obvious grammar or puctuation errors.
(Such as the use of "their - there", and "to - too - two")
5    
Score
Total Points
100    
Self-evaluation Students are expected to honestly evaluate their own work. If the difference between the student evaluation and the teacher evaluation is more than 10 points, 5 points will be deducted from the teacher's score when the grade is recorded.
Deadline All "turn-in" assignments are expected to be completed by the assigned deadline. Essays will be accepted the day after the deadline for 3/4 credit. No credit will be given after this time.

Science Essay Planning Guide