Handling of the subject matter analysis of the text and argument in support of the thesis is generally quite clear and engaging, though the writer might strengthen the argument either by further developing some points or by attending to aspects of the subject matter previously overlooked. The organization is good, but might be improved somewhat. The writer rarely includes unnecessary or superfluous information and redundancies. 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.