Name ___________________________________ Key:
Title of Essay _____________________________ check = good, adequate
Due Date of Essay _________________________ circle = needs work
Type of essay _____________________________ blank = not applicable
(Examples of types: narrative, descriptive; expository, i.e. compare/contrast, cause-effect, argumentative, evaluative, process analysis, classification, definition; research, etc.)
What writing goal(s) do you wish to focus on and accomplish while creating this piece?
Editor's comments: (Provide the name of the editor: you doing a self-check, a professor, tutor, or peer)
1. Essay Structure (Organization)
Introductory paragraph
Clear statement of thesis (main theme, topic)
Interesting lead (engaging beginning)
Body (good overall structure)
Concluding paragraph or summary statement for shorter works
2. Paragraph Structure
Paragraphs are ordered to show a logical sequence of ideas
Effective sequencing of ideas or content within the paragraph
Each paragraph has a main idea (stated or implied clearly)
Each paragraph uses enough accurate facts, details, observations, examples +/or
illustrations to support the main idea and convince the reader
Each paragraph and sentence within paragraph relates to the main theme or topic
3. Transitions, Point of View & Coherence
Transitional phrases bridge one paragraph with the next effectively
Essay sticks to one point of view (doesn't shift in point of view):
1st person - I, we; 2nd person - you; 3rd person - he, she, it, they. 3rd person has three points of view: omniscient (narrator relates subjectivity of all characters) limited omniscient (narrator relates thoughts and feelings of one) camera view (action is recorded from an objective, neutral perspective)
1st person - I, we;
2nd person - you;
3rd person - he, she, it, they.
3rd person has three points of view: omniscient (narrator relates subjectivity of all characters) limited omniscient (narrator relates thoughts and feelings of one) camera view (action is recorded from an objective, neutral perspective)
3rd person has three points of view:
omniscient (narrator relates subjectivity of all characters)
limited omniscient (narrator relates thoughts and feelings of one)
camera view (action is recorded from an objective, neutral perspective)
The reader can clearly follow the author's intended meaning point by point
4. Syntax = Sentence Structure
Complex sentence structure (uses compound & complex sentences)
Effective use of coordinating & subordinating conjunctions
Variety of sentence structure is used (non-repetitive patterns)
Sentences sound fluidic & smooth when read aloud (rhythm of words)
Sentences are free of run-ons
Sentences are free of fragments
Parallel construction
5. Vocabulary (Diction) and Risks with Language
Proper word usage
Alternative word choices (accurate, creative, non-repetitive)
Use of active, vivid verbs
Show, not tell (choice of specific words convey a picture to the reader's mind)
Use of figurative language: metaphors ("Lila is a jewel"); similes ("Josh runs like a
wild stallion"); analogies ("A heart works like a pump ...")
6. Critical Thinking and Content
Important concepts have been analyzed, explored and defined fully and clearly
Depth of thought is conveyed; original, insightful interpretation is shared
Your line of reasoning (interpretation and inferences) is clearly laid out
Reasons given to support a conclusion, solution, or belief are relevant, true
(acceptable), and there are enough of them to convince the reader
The rebuttal (con) to your argument has been addressed effectively
Assumptions (your own and other authors') have been considered
The subject has been thought of from different points of view
Implications and consequences of your conclusion are considered
7. Proofing for Grammar & Mechanics
Correct capitalization
Proper punctuation
Subject and verb or subject and pronoun agreement
Spelling has been checked (spell checker, dictionary, proofreader)
8. Quality Reader Experiences
Author's tone and style match the message well
Author has considered his/her audience's experience of the work
9. Other areas of writing to focus upon in the future:
10. Tell about your experience writing this essay: