Last modified: September 3, 2020
Rubric for 5th Grade Persuasive Writing
IDEAS AND CONTENT
5
This paper is clear, focused, and persuasive. It holds the reader’s attention.
Relevant anecdotes and details enrich the main idea.
*The writer expresses his/her opinion in a convincing manner by providing ample
support.
* The writer shows insight and has a good sense of how ideas connect with one
another.
*The writing has balance. A main idea stands out; secondary ideas do not usurp
too much attention.
*The writer seems to be in control, and orchestrates development of the topic in an
enlightening, or entertaining way.
* The writer acknowledges other opinions about the subject
ORGANIZATION
5
The organization enhances and showcases the main idea. The order, structure, and
presentation move the reader nicely through the text.
*An inviting introduction draws the reader in, and a satisfying conclusion leaves the
reader with a sense of completeness.
*Details seem to fit where they are placed.
*Transitions are smooth and weave the separate threads of meaning into one
cohesive whole.
* The writing is well balanced and moves along smoothly.
* Organization flows so smoothly that the reader may not be conscious of
organizational patterns or structure unless looking for them.
VOICE
5
The writer speaks directly to the audience in a way that is individualistic,
expressive, and engaging. Clearly, the writer is involved in the topic and is writing
to be read.
*The writer is willing to take some risks.
* The paper has the ring of conviction.
* The language is natural; it brings the topic to life.
* The reader feels a strong sense of interaction with the writer and senses the
person behind the words.
* The projected tone and voice clarify and give flavor to the writer’s message.
WORD CHOICE
5
Words convey the intended message in an interesting, precise, and natural way.
The writing is full and rich, yet concise.
* Words are specific and accurate: they seem just right.
* Imagery is strong.
* Powerful verbs give the writing energy.
* Vocabulary may be striking, but it’s natural, and never overdone.
* Expression is fresh and appealing; slang is used sparingly.
SENTENCE FLUENCY
5
The writing has an easy flow and rhythm when read aloud. Sentences are
consistently well-crafted with a varied structure that makes expressive oral reading
easy and enjoyable.
* Sentence structure strongly reflects a logic that shows how the ideas are
interrelated.
*The writing sounds natural and fluent; it glides along with effective phrasing, one
sentence flowing effortlessly into the next.
* Writing is appropriately concise, yet not terse. Sentences display an effective
combination of power and grace.
*Sentences vary in structure and length, adding interest to the text.
CONVENTIONS
5
The writer demonstrates a good grasp of standard writing conventions,* and uses
them effectively to enhance readability.
Errors tend to be so few and so minor that the reader can easily skim right over
them.
* Grammar and usage are correct and contribute to clarity and style.
* Punctuation is smooth, so it guides the reader through the text.
* Spelling is generally correct, even on more difficult words.
* The writer may manipulate conventions—particularly grammar—for stylistic effect.
* The writing is sufficiently long and complex to allow the writer to show skill in using
a wide range of conventions.
* Paragraphing tends to be sound and to reinforce the organizational structure.