First study the grading rubric for the Spring term paper.

1. A title and author, and appropriate length (5-6 pages)
2. A good thesis paragraph. Not too broad, a little controversial, clear and unambiguous. I should know exactly what your thesis is by the end of the first paragraph. If I have to guess what your thesis is you will lose points.
3. At least 3 graphical representations of data. The graphs should be appropriately sized, too big (wasting space) or too little (hard to read) will be penalized.
4. Graphs should be labelled and have good captions.
5. The meaning of the graphs should be discussed in the text.
6. Sections and paragraphs that clearly support the thesis.
7. Sections and paragraphs that anticipate arguments against the thesis.
8. Good use of quotes
9. A bibliography in MLA style.
10. Correct spelling, punctuation, grammar.
11. Original and interesting to read

For each part of the rubric, either

• Find a part of the paper that satisfies the rubric. Draw a box around it and label it with the rubric number.
• Write a note on the back of the paper saying "I couldn't find trext that related to rubric part X".

List the 3 best things about the paper. Be specific, tell why you found these things useful.

In your opinion, what items constitute the weakest part of the paper. Be specific, and suggest 2 ways that the author could strengthen these items.

Back to the class web-page.