Grading Scheme for Final Papers

A- to A+: For excellent papers, characterized by:
- a clear, interesting and original central argument
- well-organized
- does an excellent job of using evidence in support of its argument
- demonstrates strong analytical ability and comprehension of topic
- well-written. D to D+: For poor papers, characterized by:
- no central argument
- little evidence, poorly connected to central argument
- poor analytic ability
- poorly organized and/or poorly written

B- to B+: For good papers, characterized by:
- a clear central argument, though it may not be interesting or original
- well-organized
- uses evidence in support of its argument, but not as amply or convincingly as an A paper
- demonstrates solid analytical ability and comprehension of topic
- solidly written F: For unacceptable papers, characterized by:
- no central argument
- little or no evidence, unconnected to central argument
- poor analytic ability
- poorly organized and/or poorly written

C- to C+: For mediocre papers, characterized by:
- lack a clear central argument, though there may be some general theme
- fail to connect evidence to the central argument
- demonstrates basic comprehension of topic
- acceptable but unimpressive
- may be poorly written and/or poorly organized
- OR may be short of page requirement

D to D+: For poor papers, characterized by:
- no central argument
- little evidence, poorly connected to central argument
- poor analytic ability
- poorly organized and/or poorly written
F: For unacceptable papers, characterized by:
- no central argument
- little or no evidence, unconnected to central argument
- poor analytic ability
poorly organized and/or poorly written