Clearly competent, apt choice of words, effective use of varied sentence patterns, adherence to the conventions of written English. A few isolated errors in grammar or usage. Thesis Essay shows thought, but may be more general or ambitious than it should be. Elaborates with enough examples and acceptable reasoning. Style less developed than the 5, sentence structures vary less, word choices convey smaller vocabulary.
Writer demonstrates enough control over the language to convey a central argument.
Thesis Shows acceptable coherence, but argument may be obvious or ill-defined at times. Development Provides some adequate supporting detail, but needs more specific details throughout to complete points. Organization Provides and generally follows an appropriate plan throughout, but needs more transitions to maintain unity and coherence. Language Skills Adequate command of sentences and words, but may need additional work on sophisticated sentence patterns, and correction of a few major grammatical errors. Unsatisfactory in one or more ways.