ocsa creative writing rubric

Creative Writing Example Rubric

Rubric is a modification of one presented by: University Community Links (n.d.). Hot writing rubric. Retrieved August 19, 2008 from http://www.uclinks.org/reference/evaluation/HOT.html

Rubric Design

Main navigation, articulating your assessment values.

Reading, commenting on, and then assigning a grade to a piece of student writing requires intense attention and difficult judgment calls. Some faculty dread “the stack.” Students may share the faculty’s dim view of writing assessment, perceiving it as highly subjective. They wonder why one faculty member values evidence and correctness before all else, while another seeks a vaguely defined originality.

Writing rubrics can help address the concerns of both faculty and students by making writing assessment more efficient, consistent, and public. Whether it is called a grading rubric, a grading sheet, or a scoring guide, a writing assignment rubric lists criteria by which the writing is graded.

Why create a writing rubric?

• It makes your tacit rhetorical knowledge explicit
• It articulates community- and discipline-specific standards of excellence
• It links the grade you give the assignment to the criteria
• It can make your grading more efficient, consistent, and fair as you can read and comment with your criteria in mind
• It can help you reverse engineer your course: once you have the rubrics created, you can align your readings, activities, and lectures with the rubrics to set your students up for success
• It can help your students produce writing that you look forward to reading

How to create a writing rubric

Create a rubric at the same time you create the assignment. It will help you explain to the students what your goals are for the assignment.

• Consider your purpose: do you need a rubric that addresses the standards for all the writing in the course? Or do you need to address the writing requirements and standards for just one assignment?  Task-specific rubrics are written to help teachers assess individual assignments or genres, whereas generic rubrics are written to help teachers assess multiple assignments.
• Begin by listing the important qualities of the writing that will be produced in response to a particular assignment. It may be helpful to have several examples of excellent versions of the assignment in front of you: what writing elements do they all have in common? Among other things, these may include features of the argument, such as a main claim or thesis; use and presentation of sources, including visuals; and formatting guidelines such as the requirement of a works cited.
• Then consider how the criteria will be weighted in grading. Perhaps all criteria are equally important, or perhaps there are two or three that all students must achieve to earn a passing grade. Decide what best fits the class and requirements of the assignment.

Consider involving students in Steps 2 and 3. A class session devoted to developing a rubric can provoke many important discussions about the ways the features of the language serve the purpose of the writing. And when students themselves work to describe the writing they are expected to produce, they are more likely to achieve it.

At this point, you will need to decide if you want to create a holistic or an analytic rubric. There is much debate about these two approaches to assessment.

Comparing Holistic and Analytic Rubrics

Holistic scoring .

Holistic scoring aims to rate overall proficiency in a given student writing sample. It is often used in large-scale writing program assessment and impromptu classroom writing for diagnostic purposes.

General tenets to holistic scoring:

• Responding to drafts is part of evaluation
• Responses do not focus on grammar and mechanics during drafting and there is little correction
• Marginal comments are kept to 2-3 per page with summative comments at end
• End commentary attends to students’ overall performance across learning objectives as articulated in the assignment
• Response language aims to foster students’ self-assessment

Holistic rubrics emphasize what students do well and generally increase efficiency; they may also be more valid because scoring includes authentic, personal reaction of the reader. But holistic sores won’t tell a student how they’ve progressed relative to previous assignments and may be rater-dependent, reducing reliability. (For a summary of advantages and disadvantages of holistic scoring, see Becker, 2011, p. 116.)

Here is an example of a partial holistic rubric:

Summary meets all the criteria. The writer understands the article thoroughly. The main points in the article appear in the summary with all main points proportionately developed. The summary should be as comprehensive as possible and should be as comprehensive as possible and should read smoothly, with appropriate transitions between ideas. Sentences should be clear, without vagueness or ambiguity and without grammatical or mechanical errors.

A complete holistic rubric for a research paper (authored by Jonah Willihnganz) can be  downloaded here.

Analytic Scoring

Analytic scoring makes explicit the contribution to the final grade of each element of writing. For example, an instructor may choose to give 30 points for an essay whose ideas are sufficiently complex, that marshals good reasons in support of a thesis, and whose argument is logical; and 20 points for well-constructed sentences and careful copy editing.

General tenets to analytic scoring:

• Reflect emphases in your teaching and communicate the learning goals for the course
• Emphasize student performance across criterion, which are established as central to the assignment in advance, usually on an assignment sheet
• Typically take a quantitative approach, providing a scaled set of points for each criterion
• Make the analytic framework available to students before they write  

Advantages of an analytic rubric include ease of training raters and improved reliability. Meanwhile, writers often can more easily diagnose the strengths and weaknesses of their work. But analytic rubrics can be time-consuming to produce, and raters may judge the writing holistically anyway. Moreover, many readers believe that writing traits cannot be separated. (For a summary of the advantages and disadvantages of analytic scoring, see Becker, 2011, p. 115.)

For example, a partial analytic rubric for a single trait, “addresses a significant issue”:

• Excellent: Elegantly establishes the current problem, why it matters, to whom
• Above Average: Identifies the problem; explains why it matters and to whom
• Competent: Describes topic but relevance unclear or cursory
• Developing: Unclear issue and relevance

A  complete analytic rubric for a research paper can be downloaded here.  In WIM courses, this language should be revised to name specific disciplinary conventions.

Whichever type of rubric you write, your goal is to avoid pushing students into prescriptive formulas and limiting thinking (e.g., “each paragraph has five sentences”). By carefully describing the writing you want to read, you give students a clear target, and, as Ed White puts it, “describe the ongoing work of the class” (75).

Writing rubrics contribute meaningfully to the teaching of writing. Think of them as a coaching aide. In class and in conferences, you can use the language of the rubric to help you move past generic statements about what makes good writing good to statements about what constitutes success on the assignment and in the genre or discourse community. The rubric articulates what you are asking students to produce on the page; once that work is accomplished, you can turn your attention to explaining how students can achieve it.

Works Cited

Becker, Anthony.  “Examining Rubrics Used to Measure Writing Performance in U.S. Intensive English Programs.”   The CATESOL Journal  22.1 (2010/2011):113-30. Web.

White, Edward M.  Teaching and Assessing Writing . Proquest Info and Learning, 1985. Print.

Further Resources

CCCC Committee on Assessment. “Writing Assessment: A Position Statement.” November 2006 (Revised March 2009). Conference on College Composition and Communication. Web.

Gallagher, Chris W. “Assess Locally, Validate Globally: Heuristics for Validating Local Writing Assessments.” Writing Program Administration 34.1 (2010): 10-32. Web.

Huot, Brian.  (Re)Articulating Writing Assessment for Teaching and Learning.  Logan: Utah State UP, 2002. Print.

Kelly-Reilly, Diane, and Peggy O’Neil, eds. Journal of Writing Assessment. Web.

McKee, Heidi A., and Dànielle Nicole DeVoss DeVoss, Eds. Digital Writing Assessment & Evaluation. Logan, UT: Computers and Composition Digital Press/Utah State University Press, 2013. Web.

O’Neill, Peggy, Cindy Moore, and Brian Huot.  A Guide to College Writing Assessment . Logan: Utah State UP, 2009. Print.

Sommers, Nancy.  Responding to Student Writers . Macmillan Higher Education, 2013.

Straub, Richard. “Responding, Really Responding to Other Students’ Writing.” The Subject is Writing: Essays by Teachers and Students. Ed. Wendy Bishop. Boynton/Cook, 1999. Web.

White, Edward M., and Cassie A. Wright.  Assigning, Responding, Evaluating: A Writing Teacher’s Guide . 5th ed. Bedford/St. Martin’s, 2015. Print.

Mastering the Art: Navigating the Creative Writing Rubric

My name is Debbie, and I am passionate about developing a love for the written word and planting a seed that will grow into a powerful voice that can inspire many.

Understanding the Creative Writing Rubric: A Step-by-Step Guide

Decoding the criteria: unraveling the secrets of the rubric, skills and techniques: honing your craft for rubric success, skills and techniques to achieve rubric success, crafting a captivating narrative: engaging your reader from start to finish, embracing authenticity: channeling your unique voice in writing, polishing your prose: mastering grammar, spelling, and punctuation, mastering grammar, spelling, and punctuation, breaking boundaries: experimenting with structure and style in creative writing, taking feedback to improve: using the rubric as a tool for growth, frequently asked questions, the way forward.

When it comes to creative writing, it can sometimes feel like navigating a vast, uncharted territory. How can you be sure if your piece is hitting all the right marks? Enter the creative writing rubric, a powerful tool that can help you understand and evaluate your work objectively. In this step-by-step guide, we will demystify the world of rubrics and unravel their importance in assessing your creative writing.

Step 1: Familiarize Yourself with the Rubric Components

• Structure: The rubric will assess how well your writing flows , including elements such as introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.
• Language and Vocabulary: This component evaluates your mastery of language, including grammar, spelling, and the use of diverse vocabulary.
• Imagery and Descriptions: Here, the rubric considers your ability to paint vivid pictures with words and create a sensory experience for the reader.
• Pacing and Tension: This aspect appraises the way you build suspense, create momentum, and maintain the reader’s interest.

Step 2: Break Down Each Component

Now that you’re familiar with the rubric’s elements, take the time to analyze each component individually, understanding what its criteria entails. For example, under Structure, you might consider whether your piece has a strong and engaging opening, clear progression of ideas, and a satisfying resolution.

By breaking down each component, you will gain a deeper understanding of what is expected in your creative writing and be better equipped to assign yourself an accurate score. Remember, the rubric is not meant to stifle your creativity, but rather to provide guidance and ensure your work meets certain standards.

Understanding the criteria of a rubric is like deciphering a secret code. It may seem complex at first glance, but with a little guidance, you can unravel its mysteries and excel in your assignments. Here, we will demystify the secrets of the rubric, ensuring you have a clear roadmap to success.

To begin with, pay close attention to the key terms in the rubric. These are the secret clues that will help you understand what is expected of you. Look for words like “analyze,” “synthesize,” “evaluate,” or “compare and contrast.” Understanding these action words will guide you in tailoring your work to meet the requirements. Next, examine the weightage assigned to each criterion. Some criteria may carry more points than others, indicating their relative importance.

• Break down the rubric into smaller tasks to make it less overwhelming.
• Understand the scoring system, whether it’s numerical or descriptive.
• Use examples from rubric criteria to guide your research and writing.

Keep in mind that rubrics are designed to provide clarity and fairness in grading. Use the rubric as a checklist while working on your assignment. Regularly refer back to it to ensure you are meeting all the requirements. Remember, each criterion is like a piece of the puzzle that fits together to create a comprehensive project.

When it comes to ensuring success in the world of rubrics, honing your craft is essential. Here are some valuable skills and techniques that can help you excel and achieve that coveted top score:

• Clear Communication: One of the most important skills to develop is the ability to clearly communicate your ideas. Effective communication not only helps you express your thoughts but also ensures that your work is easily understood and meets the rubric criteria.
• Research and Analysis: Conducting thorough research and analyzing your findings is key to producing high-quality work. Dive deep into your subject matter, explore various perspectives, and back your arguments with credible sources. This will demonstrate your dedication to the topic and enable you to make informed decisions throughout your project.

Additionally, practicing the following techniques can further enhance your chances of achieving rubric success:

• Time Management: Effectively managing your time ensures that you stay organized and complete all required tasks within the given timeframe. Prioritize your work, create a schedule, and allocate specific periods for research, drafting, proofreading, and revision. This will help you avoid last-minute stress and submit a polished final product.
• Creative Problem-Solving: Facing challenges is inevitable, but skillful problem-solving can set you apart. Embrace creativity and think outside the box when confronted with obstacles. This ability to find innovative solutions will impress evaluators and make your project stand out among the rest.

By developing these skills and mastering these techniques, you will be well on your way to achieving rubric success. Remember, practice makes perfect! As you continue to refine these abilities, your projects will consistently meet and exceed the expectations outlined in any rubric.

When it comes to writing a captivating narrative, the goal is to draw your readers in and keep them hooked until the very end. A captivating narrative has the power to transport readers to different worlds, make them feel deeply connected to the characters, and leave a lasting impression. Here are some key tips and techniques to help you engage your readers from start to finish:

• Create relatable characters: Characters are at the heart of any narrative. Develop complex and relatable characters that your readers can connect with emotionally. Give them unique personalities, desires, and flaws that make them feel real.
• Set the stage: Transport your readers to the world of your story by vividly describing the setting. Engage their senses with rich descriptions of sights, sounds, smells, and textures. Whether it’s a bustling city, a mysterious island, or a quaint countryside, make sure your readers can visualize it in their minds.
• Build suspense: Keep your readers on the edge of their seats by introducing tension and conflict. Create obstacles and challenges for your characters to overcome, and gradually escalate the stakes. This will keep your readers invested and eager to find out what happens next.

Remember, captivating narratives are crafted through careful attention to detail, evocative descriptions, and well-developed characters. By implementing these tips, you’ll be able to engage your readers from the very first sentence and hold their attention throughout your entire narrative. Happy writing!

When it comes to writing, there is a magical power in embracing your authenticity and channeling your unique voice. Writing in your own voice not only allows you to create a deep connection with your readers but also sets you apart from other writers. Embracing authenticity means being true to yourself, expressing your thoughts, and conveying your emotions in a way that reflects who you are.

So, how can you harness this power and infuse your writing with your unique voice? The key lies in the following steps:

• Know yourself: Take the time to explore your strengths, weaknesses, and passions. Understanding who you are as a person will allow you to reflect your authentic self in your writing.
• Be honest and vulnerable: Authenticity requires honesty and vulnerability. Don’t shy away from sharing personal experiences, opinions, or emotions. Your readers will appreciate your openness and relate to your genuine voice.
• Find your writing style: Experiment with different writing styles and techniques until you discover the one that truly resonates with you. Whether it’s casual and conversational or formal and eloquent, incorporating your unique writing style will make your voice shine.

Writing is a craft, and just like any other skill, it requires practice and attention to detail. In this section, we’ll explore some essential tips and techniques to sharpen your writing by improving your grasp of grammar, spelling, and punctuation.

To begin with, let’s not forget the fundamental importance of grammar. Proper grammar ensures that ideas are conveyed accurately and clearly, providing a solid foundation for effective communication. Remember to:

• Use subject-verb agreement: Agreement between subjects and verbs is vital to maintain grammatical structure. Be mindful of singular and plural forms and ensure consistency throughout your writing.
• Avoid run-on sentences: Run-on sentences can make your writing confusing and challenging to read. Split long sentences into shorter ones using appropriate punctuation such as commas, semicolons, or periods.
• Eliminate wordiness: Cut out unnecessary words and phrases that don’t add value to your writing. Be concise and focus on expressing your ideas clearly without excessive verbiage.

Next, let’s tackle the often perplexing realm of spelling. Proper spelling not only makes your writing appear polished but also ensures that your message is conveyed accurately. Consider these useful spelling tips:

• Proofread carefully: Always proofread your work to catch any spelling mistakes that might have slipped through the cracks. Use spell-check tools, but keep in mind that they aren’t foolproof and may miss certain errors.
• Create a personal spelling list: Keep track of words you commonly misspell and review them regularly. By familiarizing yourself with these words, you’ll be more likely to spell them correctly in your writing.
• Consult reliable resources: When in doubt, consult trusted dictionaries or grammar guides to confirm the correct spelling of a word. These references will provide the guidance you need to enhance your spelling accuracy.

When it comes to creative writing, there are no limits to the ways you can tell a story. Breaking boundaries in terms of structure and style allows writers to push the boundaries of traditional storytelling and explore new realms of creativity. By experimenting with different techniques, writers can create unique and captivating pieces that stand out from the crowd.

One of the ways writers can break free from the conventional structure is by playing with the chronology of their story. By using flashbacks, flash-forwards, or even non-linear narratives, writers can create a sense of suspense and surprise for their readers. This unconventional approach enables them to engage readers’ curiosity and make them question what will happen next. Additionally, experimenting with structure can involve using unconventional paragraph breaks or employing poetic techniques, such as enjambment or caesura, to add a rhythmic and musical quality to the prose.

Feedback is a valuable asset for growth and learning. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or an artist, feedback helps us understand our strengths and weaknesses, allowing us to enhance our skills and improve our work. One effective tool for utilizing feedback is the rubric. A rubric is like a roadmap that provides clear guidelines and expectations, making it easier to assess performance objectively.

How can you make the most out of a rubric to enhance your growth? Firstly, carefully read and familiarize yourself with the rubric criteria. Take note of the different aspects being assessed, such as content, structure, creativity, or technical skills, depending on your field. Use this as an opportunity to evaluate your past work honestly and identify areas for improvement. Additionally, pay close attention to the descriptors for each level of performance. It’s crucial to understand what constitutes excellence, proficiency, and basic competence according to the rubric. Determine where you currently stand and set well-defined goals that align with your desired level of achievement.

Q: Why is it important to understand the creative writing rubric? A: Understanding the creative writing rubric is important because it allows you to grasp what is expected of you in terms of writing quality and content. It provides a clear framework for assessing your work and helps you meet the desired criteria.

Q: What are the key components of a creative writing rubric? A: A typical creative writing rubric usually includes criteria such as language use, organization, creativity, cohesion, and content knowledge. These elements are evaluated to determine the overall quality of your writing piece.

Q: How can I improve my language use in the context of creative writing? A: To enhance your language use, focus on using varied vocabulary, incorporating descriptive details, and fine-tuning your grammar and punctuation. Make sure your language evokes emotion and creates vivid imagery for the reader.

Q: How important is organization in creative writing? A: Organization is essential in creative writing to ensure that your ideas flow logically and coherently. Pay attention to your introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion, ensuring they are well-structured and transition seamlessly.

Q: How can I demonstrate creativity in my writing? A: To showcase your creativity, think outside the box and experiment with different writing techniques. Use imaginative language, employ unique metaphors or similes, and develop original plotlines and characters that captivate the reader’s attention.

Q: What does cohesion mean in the context of creative writing? A: Cohesion refers to the seamless flow of ideas throughout your writing. Achieve cohesion by using transitional phrases, maintaining consistency in tone and style, and ensuring that each sentence and paragraph supports the main theme or message.

Q: What role does content knowledge play in the creative writing rubric? A: Content knowledge indicates your understanding of the subject matter and the ability to communicate it effectively. Conduct thorough research if necessary and demonstrate your expertise through well-developed ideas, accurate information, and engaging storytelling.

Q: How can I use the creative writing rubric to evaluate my own work? A: First, familiarize yourself with the rubric and its criteria. Then, objectively assess your piece considering each component individually. Identify areas that need improvement and revise accordingly. By doing so, you can align your work with the rubric’s expectations and enhance the overall quality of your writing.

Q: Are there any resources available to help me understand and use the creative writing rubric effectively? A: Yes, several writing resources offer explanations and examples of creative writing rubrics. Additionally, your teacher or instructor may provide guidance or sample essays that align with the rubric criteria. Don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance or clarification.

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Of Rubrics and Writing

Just another academic classroom sites | lake superior college sites site, another rubric for creative assignments: short stories.

I have used a holistic, comment-based rubric for my short story assignment in Creative Writing for several years. After reading all this information about rubric, I decided to revise it into a point-based, more analytic rubric. I also changed the point values because the short story ends up being one of the longest assignments in the class, so I changed it from 100 to 150 points (I plan to decrease the points in their literary critique since that is a shorter overall assignment). I hope this new rubric makes the expectations of the assignment clearer to students and make grading more objective and clear.

Here is my original rubric (with examples of comments and a grade):

Short story rubric  

Here is the first draft of my new rubric:

Short Story Assignment  

             Write a short story (possibly using a character/characters you have developed in class assignments (week three discussion assignment). Think about all the elements of fiction which the fiction lessons and your textbook discuss.  Try to write a unique story in your own writing style.  Try not to fall back on common plots, stereotypical characters, etc.

Length:  6-25 pages (1200-6000 words)

Format: Double-spaced, in RTF format.

                Name the file as:  yourlastname_story  (for example: swing_story)

                Make sure to have title page with name, name of story, date, etc.

                Make sure to start a new paragraph when a new character speaks.

                Make sure to use correct capitalization, spelling, and grammar. See this website for grammar review if needed: http://grammar.ccc.commnet.edu/grammar/

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Narrative Writing Prompt - Rubric, Graphic Organizer - Crossroads of Choices

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Description

Introducing narrative writing has never been easier! This comprehensive personal narrative essay writing prompt resource guides students through the step-by-step process of crafting a compelling narrative. Using a detailed narrative graphic organizer , students will learn to draft a narrative outline and write a complete narrative essay .

The topic of this resource is - Crossroads of Choices.

These narrative writing lessons are designed to help students develop an entertaining and engaging story. The resource covers every aspect of narrative writing: brainstorming  ideas , developing a  plot , introducing  characters and setting , creating an intriguing climax and ending , and incorporating the  6 Traits of Writing ™. From the beginning writer to the advanced writer, this resource has something for everyone.

The video, slide show, graphic organizer, worksheets, writing template, and rubric allow students to practice and develop their narrative writing skills. The writing quiz reinforces guided note-taking techniques when used in conjunction with the instructional video. The detailed lesson plans make implementing essay writing easy for teachers .

These no-prep lessons are adaptable for in-class instruction, distance learning, or independent student work. The instructional video with writing tutorial and template can be presented as whole class instruction or assigned for students to complete at home.

All materials are available in both Google Drive™ and print formats, ensuring easy access for all students.

*****************************************************************************************

Each Narrative / Personal Narrative Writing Prompt lesson includes:

Entertaining Instructional Video with:

• Description of narrative essay
• Requirements of narrative writing
• Brainstorming ideas
• Prompt identification and comprehension
• Plot development
• Rubric explanation
• How to Write a Narrative Essay tutorial and writing template
• How to Write a Narrative Essay writing quiz / guided note-taking

Detailed Lesson Plans with:

• Common Core State Standards indicated on lesson plan
• Instructional Focus
• Instructional Procedures
• Objectives/Goals
• Direct Instruction
• Guided Practice
• Differentiation
• ESE Strategies
• ELL Strategies
• I Can Statement
• Essential Question

Worksheets with:

• Brainstorming section

Slide Show Presentation with:

• Introduction slide with prompt (interactive for students to identify key vocabulary)
• Brainstorming slide (interactive for students to list ideas)
• Plot development slides
• How to Write a Narrative Essay tutorial and writing template slides
• Checklist slide

Narrative Writing Quiz

Narrative Writing Writing Rubric

Narrative Graphic Organizer

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Check out my other High School Narrative Writing Prompts - Bundle 2:

• The Day that Went Haywire
• Crossroads of Choices
• Journey to the Future
• Midnight Misadventures
• Seasonal Splendor
• My Remarkable Talent
• Teacher for a Day
• My Dream Television Adventure
• My Dream Destination
• The Enchanted Lamp

Plus a FREE Narrative Writing Essay Lesson

• Overcoming a Challenge

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