4 pts

Advanced Work

The report displays advanced techniques in organizing an argument; the paper becomes more compelling as it builds momentum. The analysis is unusually perceptive and original.

3.33 pts

Meets Expectations

The report moves logically through stages; there is a beginning, middle, and end. It adheres to one main idea. After direct evidence is quoted, the author explains its meaning and significance in his/her own words.

2.75 pts

Developing Skills

Areas of growth might include: more accurate or abundant analysis following evidence, more revisions to the organization to improve reader-friendly logic, greater specificity in the focus of the paper overall, or improved focus on one main idea.

4 pts

Advanced Work

The selected quotations indicate an especially insightful understanding of the two primary sources.

3.33 pts

Meets Expectations

The report quotes several different lines from both the Encyclopedia and Common Sense. Through the writing as a whole, it is clear that the writer understands the evidence he or she quotes.

2.75 pts

Developing Skills

Additional, or perhaps different, quotations would strengthen the paper.

4 pts

Advanced Work

The writer draws exceptionally insightful conclusions from the evidence by connecting them, with nuance, to larger world-historical themes.

3.33 pts

Meets Expectations

The report connects the direct evidence from specific primary sources to larger themes, especially themes related to Enlightenment philosophy. It justifies its focus on those sources by explaining their participation in a larger dialog.

2.75 pts

Developing Skills

Areas for growth might include a more elaborate or specific explanation of the context surrounding the primary sources or a more boldly articulated justification for writing. A justification for writing about a specific topic entails placing it within a larger conversation: in this case, how specific texts indicate wide-spread Enlightenment discourse.