Here are the symbols and what they mean on your graded essays:
X - I'll put this next to a statement that is wrong in its facts
+ - I'll put this next to a statement that requires more explanation; you might be right, but didn't give me enough information to understand
s - I'll put this next to a statement that is not clearly enough stated for me to understand what you mean (this could be because unclear writing or failure to use precise and correct vocabulary prevents me from giving it a X or a )
a - I'll put this next to a clear statement that directly addresses the question.
Ø - I'll use this to indicate a statement that does not address the question and that I'll usually simply not factor into your score.
Scoring on essays is as follows:
Level of Achievement | General Approach | Comprehension |
exemplary (9-10 points) |
|
|
adequate (7-8 points) |
|
|
Needs Improvement (< 6 points)
|
|
|
Here are some links with essay writing tips...you might know all this already, but maybe there is something useful here.
http://classweb.gmu.edu/biologyresources/writingguide/index.htm this is an online writing guide from the Biology Dept at George Mason University...it looks pretty helpful.
http://www.fultonschools.org/teacher/tuckerjs/apbioinfo/essay_writing.htm
http://www.quinnipiac.edu/x2921.xml