Diction is lively, showing the writer's understanding of levels of diction, denotation and connotation. Errors in punctuation, mechanics, and usage are fairly rare. This essay is slightly above our minimum standard. There is a thesis statement that is relevant to the topic, although the relationship of some sentences to the thesis idea may not be precise or altogether clear. Supporting ideas may not be completely convincing, but the writer does make a systematic effort to provide appropriate details and examples in support of generalizations.
Sentences are usually grammatically correct.
Diction is adequate but not especially lively. Some errors in punctuation, mechanics, and usage occur, but they do not seriously interfere with meaning. This essay is somewhat below our minimum standard. The essay contains some details and examples, but they may not be relevant to the generalizations which they follow. Paragraphs may relate to the thesis, but they are usually underdeveloped, vague, or lacking in unity and coherence.