Narrative

CATEGORY	1	2	3	4
Capitalization & Punctuation (Conventions)	Writer makes several errors in capitalization and/or punctuation that catch the reader's attention and greatly interrupt the flow.	Writer makes a few errors in capitalization and/or punctuation that catch the reader's attention and interrupt the flow.	Writer makes 1 or 2 errors in capitalization or punctuation, but the paper is still easy to read.	Writer makes no errors in capitalization or punctuation, so the paper is exceptionally easy to read.
Penmanship (Conventions)	Many words are unreadable OR there are several distracting corrections.	The writing is generally readable, but the reader has to exert quite a bit of effort to figure out some of the words.	Paper is neatly typed with 1 or 2 distracting corrections (e.g., dark cross-outs; bumpy white-out, words written over).	Paper is neatly typed with no distracting corrections.
Grammar & Spelling (Conventions)	Writer makes more than 4 errors in grammar or spelling that distract the reader from the content.	Writer makes 3-4 errors in grammar or spelling that distract the reader from the content.	Writer makes 1-2 errors in grammar or spelling that distract the reader from the content.	Writer makes no errors in grammar or spelling that distract the reader from the content.
Focus on Topic (Content)	The main idea is not clear. There is a seemingly random collection of information.	Main idea is somewhat clear but there is a need for more supporting information.	Main idea is clear but the supporting information is general.	There is one clear, well-focused topic. Main idea stands out and is supported by detailed information.
Sequencing (Organization)	Many details are not in a logical or expected order. There is little sense that the writing is organized.	Some details are not in a logical or expected order, and this distracts the reader.	Details are placed in a logical order, but the way in which they are presented/introduced sometimes makes the writing less interesting.	Details are placed in a logical order and the way they are presented effectively keeps the interest of the reader.
Introduction (Organization)	There is no clear introduction of the main topic or structure of the paper.	The introduction states the main topic, but does not adequately preview the structure of the paper nor is it particularly inviting to the reader.	The introduction clearly states the main topic and previews the structure of the paper, but is not particularly inviting to the reader.	The introduction is inviting, states the main topic and previews the structure of the paper.