Grading Scale and Criteria

A+ 87+ %
A 83-86%
A- 80-82%

A = Excellent. These papers clearly address the assigned topic and present an inventive perspective on it—either because the thesis is unique or daring, or because the evidence presented to support the thesis is unusual and/or very well developed. ȁ” papers show creativity, originality, and independent thought. Close reading is skillfully employed. The argument is lucid, the organization is thorough and logical, and there are only minor and occasional technical errors. The prose is clear and may also be stylistically sophisticated.

B+ 77-79%
B 73-76%
B- 70-72%

B = Above average. These papers address the assigned topic and present a clear, comprehensive and plausible thesis. The paper is logically organized, and the evidence is well presented and sufficiently detailed (it follows the model: claim-evidence-connection). There are no more than one or two factual errors and/or conceptual inconsistencies. If there are mechanical errors, they are few and relatively minor. A paper that is technically perfect but generally unimaginative may be given a “B.”

C+ 67-69%
C 63-66%
C- 60-62%

C = Average. These papers address the assigned topic. The thesis is generally clear and makes a generally accurate statement about the subject at hand. The exposition of the thesis may be insufficient, or somewhat disorganized. The paper may rely on unsupported generalizations and underdeveloped ideas. There may be some problems with unsubstantiated claims or pointless evidence. There may be several mechanical errors—though not enough to fail based on the Standard English policy. Overall, the paper is comprehensible and makes a few good points—though there may be weaknesses with evidence, argument, syntax and/or style.

D 50-59%

D = Poor. These papers have major problems with their theses and/or fail to address adequately the assigned topic. There may be major problems with argument, supporting evidence, organization, focus, logic, mechanics and/or style. The D paper, however, unlike the F, shows that the writer has some understanding of the subject and has made some effort to establish a thesis and support an argument.

F below 50%

F = Failure. These papers do not meet the standards of university-level English. They may have no discernible thesis, completely illogical organization, or no attempt to support claims. They may include numerous errors or misinformation. Papers which do not meet the grammatical standard set for this class will also receive an F grade.