Create a positive environment which is more conducive to success than failure. One way to encourage positive experiences is with ungraded free-writing exercises. It is also helpful if students feel that they understand and are in control of the material to be written about. Also writing, like problem-solving, can be broken down into small steps, thus making a large project seem more manageable. Grading Because writing often involves a good deal of subjective evaluation, the process of grading can be something of an ordeal.
Several sources provide criteria for evaluating student writing.
These are available in the Center's resource library. Generally, the criteria deal with focus, organization, development, sentence structure, mechanics, and appropriate citations. Does the student understand the relationships between the facts presented and the ramifications. As you continue to work with students, you may identify additional criteria specific to your discipline. In addition, you should always check with the course instructor concerning criteria and guidelines for acceptable papers and written essay exams.