Writing Assessment Rubric


6-Point Rubric

Writing Assessment Rubric - Word Choice

Number

Level

Looks Like

1

Not Yet

The writing shows an extremely limited vocabulary, or is so filled with misused words that the meaning is obscured. Only the most general kind of message is communicated because of vague or imprecise language. The writing is characterized by:

  • general, vague words that fail to communicate.
  • an extremely limited range of words.
  • words that simply do not fit the text; they seem imprecise, inadequate, or just plain wrong.

2

Emerging

Language is monotonous and/or misused, detracting from the meaning and impact. The writing is characterized by:

  • words that are colorless, flat or imprecise.
  • monotonous repetition or overwhelming reliance on worn expressions that repeatedly detract from the message.
  • images that are fuzzy or absent altogether.

3

Developing

Language is quite ordinary, lacking interest, precision and variety, or may be inappropriate to audience and purpose in places. The writer does not employ a variety of words, producing a sort of "generic" paper filled with familiar words and phrases. The writing is characterized by:

  • words that work, but that rarely capture the reader's interest.
  • expression that seems mundane and general; slang, if used, does not seem purposeful and is not effective.
  • attempts at colorful language that seem overdone or forced.
  • words that are accurate for the most part, although misused words may occasionally appear; technical language or jargon may be overused or inappropriately used.
  • reliance on cliches and overused expressions; generic, basic.

4

Competent

Words effectively convey the intended message. The writer employs a variety of words that are functional and appropriate to audience and purpose. The writing is characterized by:

  • words that work but do not particularly energize the writing.
  • expression that is functional; however, slang, if used, does not seem purposeful and is not particularly effective.
  • attempts at colorful language that may sometimes seem overdone.
  • occasional overuse of technical language or jargon.
  • rare experiments with language; however, the writing may have some fine moments and generally avoids cliches.

5

Experienced

Words convey the intended message in an interesting, precise, and natural way appropriate to audience and purpose. The writer employs a broad range of words which have been carefully chosen and thoughtfully placed for impact. The writing is characterized by:

  • accurate, specific words; word choices energize the writing.
  • fresh, vivid expression; slang, if used, seems purposeful and is effective.
  • vocabulary that may be striking and varied, but that is natural and not overdone.
  • ordinary words used in an unusual way.
  • words that evoke clear images; figurative language may be used.

6

WOW!

Words convey the intended message in an exceptionally interesting, precise, and natural way appropriate to audience and purpose. The writer employs a rich, broad range of words which have been carefully chosen and thoughtfully placed for impact. The writing is characterized by:

  • accurate, strong, specific words; powerful words energize the writing.
  • fresh, original expression; slang, if used, seems purposeful and is effective.
  • vocabulary that is striking and varied, but that is natural and not overdone.
  • ordinary words used in an unusual way.
  • words that evoke strong images; figurative language may be used.

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