Compsci 182s, Spring 2006, Paper Criteria

There are three categories, each with a scale of 0-3 points (though it's likely difficult to get a zero unless there's really no effort in the category.)

In each category, the grade of 0-3 are assigned as follows:

3 means excellent. The category is mastered or covered at a high level.
2 means good. The category is covered well, but there is real room for improvement and something that would make the coverage an A is missing (this corresponds to a B).
1 means fair. There is effort, but it's adequate and not yet attaining good.
0 means poor. There are very serious flaws in mastery or coverage.

Here are the three categories.

A, the first reading

After one reading the author's message and purpose for writing are clear. Relevant readings and literature are cited and the author understands the issues and has conveyed this understanding. The reader is convinced that the author has surveyed some relevant areas and has tried to use the knowledge gained from the survey in writing the paper. There are no serious flaws in facts or understanding.

B, the content and thesis

A careful (or second) reading helps in providing grades for this area. The thesis of the paper is clear and well-developed. Arguments relevant to the thesis and contributing to the paper form the foundation on which the work stands. Non-relevant or uninsightful examples are few (ideally are missing completely). The author has provided useful references that distinguish the work from the ordinary, and used these references to cover areas relevant to the paper. The author considers alternatives to the thesis and argues against them in the paper.

C, the organization and mechanics

The writing in the paper is powerful and good. Paragraphs are well-structured and the paper flows well. Transitions between sections and/or paragraphs are thoughtful, clear, and contribute to the paper. Spelling, grammar, and writing are done according to the style of the subject. If there are tense problems, comma issues, run-on sentences, poor grammar, then it will be difficult to earn a three in this category.

As before, ideally grades will correspond to the following, but will be arrived at by providing reasons for each area above:

Outline of Scoring

7-9: Excellent paper (some kind of A)
The paper is well-written, goes beyond the superficial in analysis and understanding, shows evidence of reading and understanding beyond what has been discussed in class, addresses the topic incisively.
4-6: Good paper (some kind of B) Reasonable thesis statement and solid supporting arguments, but there's a lack of incisiveness, or the paper is formulaic. The arguments may be superficial, or some relevant and important point may be overlooked.
1-3: Poor paper (some kind of C or D) Thesis is not well-defined, paper is hard to read, references are weak.
0 Not done or equivalent, F

Owen L. Astrachan

Last modified: Mon Mar 6 21:16:51 EST 2006