Research Paper Rubric

____/45 points
Please attach this rubric to your paper or you will lose an automatic
5 points.

Topic 1:
Based on a definition of tragedy of your choice (must be cited), answer the question: Do you
consider
Raisin in the Sun
to be a tragedy? Why or why not?
Topic 2:
The American Dream is broadly defined as:
The ideal that every US citizen should have an
equal opportunity to achieve success and prosperity through hard work, determination, and
initiative.
Using the provided definition, or one of your own (must be approved), choose a particular group of
your choosing (refer to the essay sheet) and write an essay either explaining how your group either
A.
LIved a better life because of the American Dream or
B.
The inadequacies, inconsistencies, and unfairness that your group encountered in spite of
the American Dream.
Ultimately, your essay should answer the question Did the idea of the American Dream hurt more
than it helped?

Criteria
Intro Paragraph (10 points)
Do you have a strong thesis statement?
Your thesis statement should do three things.
1. Let the reader know what your paper is about.
2. Provide a roadmap, what are your points of argument that support your beliefs on the subject
matter? How will they follow, and connect to one another throughout your essay?
3. Let the reader know your particular stance on the subject. What is it that you are feeling, and
why are you writing this paper?
Your thesis statement is the most important part of your paper. If your thesis is weak, your paper will
lack any sort of structure. The thesis is necessary to establish the purpose of your paper.

Body Paragraphs (20 points)

Your body paragraphs by no means should be clones of each other. The content and style of each
paragraph should be unique, but what stays the same is the function--or point--of the body
paragraphs.
Does your paragraph follow your thesis?
Everything you write in your paragraph should be related to your thesis. It should further your proof
as to why your opinion is the correct one.

Content
Paragraphs are fully realized pieces that dont end when the sentence count is reached. Each
paragraph contains an intro sentence, relevant content, and coherent transitions between
paragraphs. Any quotes or references to an outside source cannot simply be placed in the middle of
your paragraph. Everything should have a reason for being in your paper, and should support your
thesis in some way, shape, or form.

Conclusion Paragraph (5 points)

Your closing paragraph successfully restates your thesis, sums up three body paragraphs, and
summarizes how your original point was shown or proven by your paper. Students should avoid
language such as, In conclusion or So that is why.
Your topic should never be so broad that it can not have a definitive end. When you write your thesis,
you are establishing the framework of your argument. This framework should be focused enough that
it will be able to have a specific, logical conclusion that lets the reader know your point has sufficiently
been proven.

Research Elements (10 points)

This portion of the essay is similar to the quote section from the previous essay. I believe to write a
competent essay, you will need to at least cite 3 sources. You may use sources I have provided, but I
would like at least 2 sources of your own.

Proper Use of Formal Language Writing Rules (Counts throughout paper)

Standard Grammar
No Slang--Complete Sentences, and no contractions
Handwrite any numbers that are less than 100.
Spelling Counts (Use Spell Check)
Must be typed, 12 standard font
Proper indentation, title, and paragraph formatting
Do
not
use first person language (Ex: I believe that)

DUE: Monday, April 20th.