Exemplary 22.5-25 points	Proficient 20-22.25 points	Developing 17.5-19.75 points	Beginning 15-17.25 points	Inadequate 0-14.75 points
Comprehension of Assignment (50% of grade)	Drop-down menu: 25 – 22.5 pts. The assignment presents specific, clear and datable questions that narrow each topic and provide focus for research. Three topic of the student’s own are included.	Drop down menu: 22.25 – 20 pts. Questions are mostly specific, clear, and debatable. Focus for research is suggested by the majority of the questions. Three topic of the student’s own are included.	Drop-down menu: 19.75 – 17.5 pts. Some questions are specific, clear, and debatable; however, other questions may be vague or too broad. Three topic of the student’s own are included.	Drop-down menu: 17.25 – 15 pts. Few questions are specific, clear, or debatable. Several questions may be easily answered with facts, statistics, or opinion. One or two of the student’s own topics are included.	Drop-down menu: 14.75 – 0 pts. The majority of questions are ineffective in suggesting a focus for research. None of the student’s own topics have been included.
Writing Skills (50% of grade)	Drop-down menu: 25 – 22.5 pts. Word choice is precise, sentences are varied, and grammatical errors are rare or absent.	Drop down menu: 22.25 – 20 pts. Word choice is appropriate and sentences are sometimes varied. Some errors in sentence structure, usage, and mechanics are present.	Drop-down menu: 19.75 – 17.5 pts. Word choice is imprecise and sentences may be poorly constructed or confusing. Errors in sentence structure, usage, and mechanics are present.	Drop-down menu: 17.25 – 15 pts. A pattern of errors in grammar, usage, and mechanics significantly interferes with meaning.	Drop-down menu: 14.75 – 0 pts. Errors in grammar, usage, and mechanics are pervasive and obstruct meaning.