Questions for Consideration—Argumentative Research

· Does the writer narrow his/her topic to a single, specific and clear focus?

· Does the writer clearly choose a position?

· Does the writer provide an in-depth look at his/her topic?

· Does the writer incorporate sources that are credible, timely, and relevant?

· Does the writer identify holes in his/her opponent’s argument?

· Does the writer paraphrase in a clear and accurate way?

· Does the writer properly cite sources?

· Does the writer rely too heavily on any one source?

· Does the writer contribute to the argument?

· Does the writer define terms for the layperson audience?

· Does the introduction hook the reader?

· Does the essay have a logical organization?

· Does the writer vary sentence length/structure?

· Is the text free from distracting surface errors?

· Is the text readable prose?

· Does the conclusion trail off or end abruptly?

· Does the writer maintain a consistent tone?