Grading Criteria for LIT 200 Essays 

Grade Descriptions

Grade A

This essay exceeds the demands of the assignment.  The reader is able to comprehend and appreciate the discussion thoroughly.

1.     Outstanding critical observation

2.     Substantial analysis showing complexity of thought and insight

3.     Sharply focused thesis showing originality and sophistication of thought

4.     Outstanding selection of support and evidence

5.     Proficiency with literary devices and techniques; facility with literary terms

6.     Highly developed personal style

7.     Sophistication of expression and use of language

ü     Evaluation of the success and effectiveness of a piece is a bonus

Grade B

This essay responds to the all demands of the assignment.  The reader is able to comprehend and appreciate the discussion.  The analysis is competent but limited.

1.     Sound critical observation

2.     Competent analysis, perhaps safe in most instances

3.     Clear well-developed thesis that expresses a critical view and leads to a conclusion

4.     Careful selection of support and evidence

5.     Sensitivity to literary devices and techniques; familiarity with literary terms

6.     Evidence of appropriate personal style

7.     Competent expression and use of language

Grade C

This essay responds to the main demands of the assignment.  The reader is able to comprehend the discussion, but some errors or inconsistencies may cause confusion.

1.     Some observation combined with limited critical comment

2.     Inconsistency of analysis, with limited insight

3.     Simplistic thesis, with a tendency to speculate and generalise

4.     Selection of evidence is generally relevant

5.     Catalogue of literary elements, but limited appreciation of their effects

6.     Some evidence of an appropriate personal style

7.     Adequate expression and use of language

Grade D

This essay responds to the some of the demands of the assignment.  The reader is able to comprehend the discussion, but errors and inconsistency causes confusion.

1.     Summary-oriented with limited observation

2.     Absence of relevant analysis

3.     Poorly expressed thesis or focus

4.     Lacks sufficient support, evidence and detail

5.     Lacks familiarity with or misuses literary elements

6.     Inappropriate personal style

7.     Considerable language difficulties

Grade F

This essay fails to adhere to the demands of the assignment.  The reader is unable to comprehend the discussion because of errors and inconsistencies.  The discussion is trite and simplistic.

1.     Purely summary-oriented with no attempt at critical comment.

2.     Analysis is missing or severely flawed

3.     Absence of a thesis or focus

4.     Asence of support, evidence and detail

5.     No familiarity with or complete misuse of literary elements

6.     Lacks personal style

7.     Severe language difficulties