Research Paper Checklist and Evaluation Criteria

OUTLINE (logical organization, adequate detail, noun phrases, format)	0	1	2	3	4	5

TEXT
Introduction (interesting background, statistics, rhetorical questions, anecdote, etc.)	0	1	2	3	4	5
Content (interesting, clear line of argumentation, convincing) (X 3)	0	3	6	9	12	15
Organization (paragraphing, topic sentences)	0	1	2	3	4	5
Support for assertions / information (examples, explanations, reasons) (X 2)	0	2	4	6	8	10
Support of arguments with secondary sources (in-text citations) (X 2)	0	2	4	6	8	10
Definition of terms	0	1	2	3	4	5
Paraphrasing/summarizing/quoting/framing of sources	0	1	2	3	4	5
Written Expression
Clarity of thesis statement	0	1	2	3	4	5
Writing style and flow (coherence--transitions, key words, pronouns)	0	1	2	3	4	5
Sentence Structure (complexity, grammar) (X 2)	0	2	4	6	8	10
Vocabulary (word choice, word form)	0	1	2	3	4	5
Mechanics (format, running head, headings, page numbers, spacing, punctuation, capitalization, spelling, appearance)	0	1	2	3	4	5
Conclusion (restatement of thesis, summary, recommendations, etc.)	0	1	2	3	4	5
In-text citations and references (APA format, alphabetical order, matching, spacing, hanging indents)	0	1	2	3	4	5
TOTAL:	/ 100			=

0	Target trait not included
1	Does not use target trait, or writing is illegible or incomprehensible.
2	Use of traits is at a functional level, sometimes appropriate use but often not. Lack of control interferes with communication.
3	Use of trait is at developmental level; inconsistent or inappropriate use of trait and level of control sometimes interfere with communication.
4	Few major misuses of that rarely interfere with communication but not yet at a fluent level of control.
5	Mastery level of performance: few misuses of traits; fluent level of control: meets standard