Essay makes an argument to an audience. Essay is structured around a controlling idea or thesis statement. Evidence illustrates or argues the controlling idea. Evidence is appropriate to topic and purpose. Evidence is sufficient.
Audience is defined implicitly or explicitly and accommodated through essay.
Whole paper structure supports controlling idea. Language use contributes to success of essay. Vocabulary and syntax are appropriate to purpose and occasion. Sentences vary to reinforce logic of essay. Essay demonstrates understanding of standard English conventions, including sentence boundaries and completeness, concord, appropriate modification, and mechanics, including spelling, punctuation, and manuscript conventions.