Creative Writing Rubric

General Writer’s Workshop Rubric

Score  ( /10)	Writing Traits
	CLEAR, WELL-ORGANIZED, WELL-DEVELOPED IDEAS The writer’s purpose is clear. Transitions are used to connect paragraphs. Introduction, body, and conclusion provide logical sequencing of ideas. Narrative shows a sense of story/plot arc (remember conflict moves action)
	SENTENCE VARIATION IN PARAGRAPHS Lead sentence captures the reader's attention. Sentence lengths and structures are varied: At least one successful compound sentence with either comma/conjunction or semicolon structure. At least one successful opening adjective sentence At least one successful delayed adjective sentence
	WORD CHOICE and STYLE Utilizes vivid, lively verbs. Avoids vague, overused, repetitive language (a lot, great, very, really, there is, there are, super, like . . .). Word choice and phrasing gives the writer a personality or "voice".
	GRAMMAR, USAGE, MECHANICS No run-on sentences or fragments - READ YOUR PIECE ALOUD TO LISTEN FOR RUN-ONS. FIX AS NEEDED. Subject/verb agreement Consistent verb tense Pronoun/antecedent agreement Correct punctuation, capitalization, and spelling
	EXPLODING A MOMENT Clearly demonstrates the writer knows how to “explode a moment” using either a snapshot, a thoughtshot, or baby steps to draw the reader’s attention.
____/50	________/ 100

10- Excellent   

8 - Good   

6 - Fair

4 - Needs Work

2 - Unacceptable