Research Paper Rubrics

Research Paper Rubric

This rubric for research papers is primarily for those who have used the basic writing rubric several times and are familiar with it. Content for the research paper comprises 66% of the grade and mechanics 33%.

• Outline present
• Introductory paragraph(s)
• Thesis statement is clear
• Outline supports thesis
• Paragraph development
• At least 5 Footnotes
• Originality of ideas
• Clarity of sentences
• Summary paragraph(s)
• Bibliography of at least 5 sources
• Spelling
• Proper sentences
• Punctuation
• Possessives/Apostrophes
• Use of pronouns

Download the Research Writing Rubric

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How to Use the Writing Rubric

Each criteria will be given between 0 and 10 points, providing a maximum total of 100 points.

To earn ten points for a given criteria, you should be able to highlight specific examples of how the student has mastered that criteria. This highlighting serves as positive reinforcement to the student. It can also serve as an example to other students of skill they might emulate to improve their writing.

Nine point score for a given criteria indicates that the student has successfully incorporated that skill at a level expected for their grade level. If they achieved nine points on every criteria, that would equal a grade of 90%. This score indicates that they correctly wrote though no extraordinary skills were demonstrated.

If the student's writing has specific weakness or needs improvement, a score of eight points should be given. Also, provide the student with specific instructions of which part of the paper is below expectation and what might be done to strengthen for subsequent assignments.

Seven points are given if the criteria is well below expected level for the student's grade. Keep in mind that if they received a 7 on all criteria, it would result in a score of 70, which is equivalent to a "D."

If the student completely fails one specific criteria, a zero should be given and have them re-do the assignment.

Make Your Own Research Rubric

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What Can You Include in this Research Paper Rubric?

Here are some of the criteria I have used at different times with different students. This is not an exhaustive list, and you may have other points. To individualize your own rubrics, you may choose ten that best fit your needs. Grading Criteria:

• List the goal/purpose of the assignment
• The points are organized
  
• Introductory paragraph introduces the topic
  
• Original ideas are presented
  
• Paragraph development with topic sentences
  
• Clear Phrases (avoid awkward or hard to read sentences)
  
• Interesting sentences capture the reader's attention
  
• A concluding paragraph summarizes the paper
  
• Thesis statement is present
  
• Bibliography with a minimum of X resources
  
• Variety in sentence structure
  
• Correct documentation of sources
  
• Use of transitions between paragraphs
  
• Pictures and tables
  
• Neatness, professional appearance, use of fonts
  
• Footnotes or endnotes
  
• Use of quotations
  
• Level of vocabulary used
  
• Complete sentences with no fragments or run-ons
  
• Punctuation
  
• Spelling
  
• Completed on time

Weight for Mechanics

In our basic research paper rubrics at the top of this page, mechanics is scored for 33% of the grade. When developing your own rubric, you can emphasize mechanics more or less than this.

Generally, the minimum weight given to mechanics is 25% of the grade. On the other hand, 50% is usually the maximum given to writing mechanics.

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More Tips for Making Your Own Writing Rubrics