Does Not Meet Expectations

(10-13)

Partially Meets Expectations

(14-16)

Meets Expectations

(17-19)

Exceeds Expectations

(20)
Understanding of the causes of the war Student shows no effort of attempting to relate the readings to the cause of the war. Very basic understanding of the history but paper is vague and does not address anything in detail. If I struggle I can relate your evidence to your thesis. Student presents material that is focused and clear.  Demonstrates good grip on the thesis and proves it with sufficient evidence. Material presented in paper is clear, accurate, and complete  Shows deep understanding of the currents of US History as they flowed to the Civil War. The paper is good enough to be submitted to the History Department for consideration for a prize.
Historical evidence Student does not show any understanding of historical background and includes very little evidence to prove their point. Uses a minimum of sources.  Information, though interesting, does not relate to thesis. Displays thorough understanding of the relation of slavery to the Civil War.  Adequately described historical examples that prove the thesis. Ample evidence and complete understanding of the history.  So well documented and described so well that I can use this to show to future students
Evaluating and Using Sources Uses only one source.  Makes little effort to determine what the information presented means Uses two or more sources.  Recognizes who is the author of the information Uses multiple sources that give good understanding of the topic, the history, and the relation of the information to the thesis.  Takes into account the scope, authority, and currency of the information Uses diverse sources that reflect thorough understanding of the subject.   So well researched that I could give the bibliography to future students
Citing Information Sources are not cited properly Follows recommended format for citation although several errors are apparent Follows recommended format for citation with only a few errors Follows recommended format exactly with no errors.  Sources are accurately cited.
Quality of document Significantly less than five pages; many spelling and/or grammar mistakes One of the following problems is present: spelling mistakes; grammar mistakes; lack of detail A well-written, five to six page document with minimal spelling or grammar mistakes Seven or more pages of high quality analysis with absolutely no spelling or grammar problems