AMERICAN STUDIES To Kill a Mockingbird Essay

Name _________________

Period_________________

____ Ideas and Development

15 __ minimum of 500-600 words analyzing the novel

__ clear, succinct thesis statement on one of the given topics (underline it)

__ clear focus on your chosen topic throughout the essay

__ abundant details, examples, and quotations from the novel to support your points

(with proper page citation for quotations)

__ minimum of two brief quotations as part of your evidence

__ good judgment in your choice of supporting details

__ accurate statements about the novel

____ Organization

15 __ appropriate title of essay

__ clear introduction: use engaging lead, summarize the story, lead into the thesis, include the thesis.

__ logical paragraphing to help the reader (clear focus on one topic per paragraph)

__ sufficient detail to explain the points

__ effective transitions between paragraphs

__ effective conclusion: clearly answer the thesis, restate the main points, connect the issue to self or world, hook back to the lead.

____ Sentence Fluency, Voice, and Word Choice

10 __ sentences flow and read smoothly

__ variety in sentence length and structure

___ one 3 word sentence. Highlight this.

___ one 25+ word sentence. Highlight this.

__ vivid word choice that helps show your reader your ideas (highlight at least five words or phrases that

you feel are particularly vivid)

____ Conventions

10 __ neat and legible (typed, double-spaced)

__ spelling, punctuation, and usage don’t cause your teacher to suffer premature graying

__ complete, proper sentences (no fragments, run-ons, or comma splices)

____ Total

50