Uses of the hyphen and of italics and underlining are considered matters of format in Criterion Four. The writer uses punctuation to clarify and enhance meaning. The writing exhibits varied or sophisticated punctuation appropriate to the context or application. The writer uses basis punctuation accurately and purposefully. This criterion considers the writer's use of the elements of sentence structure to establish and clarify meaning within sentences.
All sentences are grammatically complete.
Most of the writer's uses of words, phrases, and clauses to establish sentence patterns clarify relationships among ideas. The writer demonstrates a consistent understanding of the conventions of appropriate grammar and usage. The writer's isolated errors do not obstruct immediate understanding of the intended meaning. Most of the writer's uses of words, phrases, and clauses to establish sentence patterns reflect relationships among ideas, but the intended meaning is sometimes unclear. Except for an isolated error, all sentences are grammatically complete.