Does Not Meet Expectations

0-13

Partially Meets Expectations

14-16

Meets Expectations

17-19

Exceeds Expectations

20

Understanding of the topic

Student shows no effort of attempting to relate the readings to the thesis

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 particular event of US History. 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 topic under discussion, and makes good use of sources to prove thesis. Adequately describes 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 seven pages; many spelling and/or grammar mistakes

One or more of the following problems is present: spelling mistakes; grammar mistakes; lack of detail

A well-written, seven to eleven page document with minimal spelling or grammar mistakes

Eleven pages of high quality analysis with absolutely no spelling or grammar problems