A significant central idea clearly defined and limited, supported with concrete, substantial, and consistently relevant detail. The essay is planned so that it progresses by clearly ordered and necessary stages, and developed with originality and consistent attention to proportion and emphasis.
Paragraphs are coherent, unified, and effectively developed.
Transitions between paragraphs are explicit and effective. Clarity and effectiveness of expression are promoted by consistent use of standard grammar, punctuation, and spelling. The central idea is defined and limited with more than usual care and clarity, supported with concrete, substantial, and consistently relevant detail. The essay is planned so that its purpose and method are consistently apparent and fulfilled. Paragraphs are coherent, unified, and effectively developed.