CLEP Criteria: Characteristics of a "B" Paper



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Characteristics of “B” papers

Content
  • The material is thoughtful and engaging.
  • A single-focus runs through the entire paper. 
  • The writer clearly acknowledges the expectations of the audience.  
  • The focus is developed with appropriate details, examples, and discussions. 
  • Outside sources are used clearly and purposefully. 
  • The paper responds directly to the writing assignment.
Organization
  • The focus is clearly identifiable.
  • The overall pattern is clear and sensible.  
  • The focus is developed through a sequence of related paragraphs. 
  • Paragraphs are clearly organized, but some may lack richness of detail or evidence. 
  • The opening is appropriate to the focus. 
  • Transitions between and within paragraphs advance the writer’s ideas.
Style
  • Sentences demonstrate the writer’s control over a range of sentence structures.
  • Sentences are generally clear, logical, and readable. 
  • Writer demonstrates general control over vocabulary appropriate to the writing task. 
  • The language is idiomatic. 
  • The tone is consistent and appropriate to the writer’s purpose and audience.
Mechanics
  • Format is appropriate.
  • References to outside sources are generally cited and documented according to the appropriate style sheet. 
  • Problems in grammar, spelling, punctuation, or usage rarely interfere with communication.
  Last Modified Date: August 7, 2008
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