Grading Writing Assignments:

Grading of Writing Assignments

Grading of the writing assignments will be accomplished by concentrating on two areas equally: Content and Composition. Composition will encompass compliance to the requirements specified for each assignment. Each area is scored equally.

Specific areas upon which the instructor will be concentrating when grading writing assignments:

• Margins--One inch all around. If in doubt, measure them.

• Numbers--Numbers 10 and above should be written as numerals except when they are used beginning a sentence.

• When percent follows a number, utilize the percent (%) symbol.

• Indentation--Five and only five spaces.

• Spacing--Double-spaced

• Proper citations and references are expected. http://writing.wisc.edu/Handbook/DocAPAOrientation.html This site also provides excellent citation and reference guidance. http://citationmachine.net/

• Separate sheets for the Title, Abstract, and Reference pages required. http://writing.wisc.edu/Handbook/DocAPAOrientation.html

• Page numbers as stipulated. http://writing.wisc.edu/Handbook/DocAPAOrientation.html

• Papers will have proper headings. http://writing.wisc.edu/Handbook/DocAPAOrientation.html

• Do not double space between paragraphs.

• The paper shall be written using TIMES font and 12 size.

• Do not use the phrase "looked at" unless it is a personal visual observation. Although this is commonly used by academics to describe a review or study, this is improper terminology.

• Papers submitted below the required length will receive an appropriate grade reduction for this deficiency.


• NO QUOTED MATERIAL SHALL BE USED IN YOUR PAPER, AND THAT INCLUDES THE ANNOTATED BIBLIOGARPHY.


• Do not write in the first person. Speak of yourself or your position as “It is believed” or  “Evidence suggests.”


• Do not import tables from your journals into your papers. You may use tables that you have created. If you do use tables you have created, remember that all elements of the table must be completely explained in your paper.
   
• Finally, ALWAYS, ALWAYS, ALWAYS read your finished paper aloud to yourself. Your ears will hear mistakes that your eyes fail to see. Also, have your paper proofread by another who you consider knowledgeable. These last two, if properly done, will go a long way to insuring a score commensurate to your effort.