Handling of the subject matter analysis of the text and argument about the main idea is competent but remains significantly underdeveloped or incomplete. The essay's organization is weak. Several paragraphs are poorly focused, incoherent, or insufficiently-developed. His or her approach to the subject matter implies that he or she is either uninterested in it or finds it confusing. The essay must be re-organized if the writer is to clarify the explanation or argument.
Many paragraphs are poorly focused, incoherent, or insufficiently-developed.
The essay is turned in so late that the lateness penalty reduces the grade to fewer than 60 points. The essay is never turned in at all. The essay does not fulfill the assignment. The essay shows little or no effort.