Criteria 4 3 2 1
Organization The introduction is concise with a clearly stated thesis statement and grabs the reader’s attention.
The body precisely supports the thesis and clearly defines the task.
The conclusion sums up the essay with a strong closing statement and supports the thesis statement. The introduction is general and thesis is somewhat stated.
The body supports the thesis and somewhat defines the task.
The conclusion sums up the essay with a closing statement and supports the thesis statement. The introduction is weak with no grabber or thesis statement.
Underdeveloped body paragraphs, where the task is summarized and no clear order among ideas.
The conclusion sums up the essay with a simple statement. The beginning, middle, and ending all run together. Lacks coherence.
Lack of organization obscures the main point.

Ideas Topic is precise and demonstrates an exact understanding of the author’s purpose and the imagery in both texts.
Accurate exploration of the imagery in the texts.
Ideas are evident and clearly stated with a detailed explanation given to support the concluding statement. Topic stated and demonstrates an understanding of the author’s purpose and the imagery in both texts.
An explanation is given about the imagery in the texts.
Ideas are clearly stated with an explanation given to support the concluding statement. Only describes one relationship from one text OR insufficient description of the author’s purpose and the imagery in both texts
Ideas are vaguely stated and an explanation needs to be provided to support the concluding statement.
Ideas are summarized and not explained. Topic is ambiguous and unclear. The essay lacks understanding.
Ideas are fragmented and details are not supportive.
There is no connection between the text and the task
Context/
Textual Evidence The writing is exceptionally clear, focused, and interesting. The detailed are well suited to the audience, purpose, and support the task.
Includes supporting, relevant, carefully selected details, incorporated thoughtfully and appropriately.
Strong, sufficient use of textual evidence linking to the main points. The