Grading policy

Here's how the "final commentary project" will be evaluated and graded (based on models developed by Dr. Ray Chavez of the University of Colorado and Dr. Denny Wiggins of St. Bonaventure University). In general, final commentary projects receiving the following grades will have all or some of the described attributes:

A — Editorial/commentary is publishable with only light editing, if any; has no errors in grammar, punctuation, spelling, facts or AP style. Editorial/commentary shows mastery of supporting facts, judgment, logical flow to the argument, bright writing and clearly expressed opinion. In short, the piece contains excellent writing and reasoning.

A-/B+ — Well written editorial/commentary supported by appropriate facts. May lack completeness in argument or need some additional supporting material. Needs light editing. Has one or two (total) errors in grammar, punctuation, spelling or AP style.

B — Assignment handled well. Lede and/or argument might need strengthening. A few more supporting facts might be needed. A few (total) errors in grammar, punctuation, spelling and/or AP style errors.

B-/C+ — Several errors in grammar, punctuation, spelling and/or AP style. Might have a weak or wordy lede with overall weaknesses in clarity of expression, wordiness, and cluttered or awkward wording. Needs better organization of argument or additional supporting facts. Not acceptable for publication.

C — Several organizational and writing problems. Contains inaccuracies or lacks sufficient, appropriate supporting facts. Might be weak, muddy and poorly organized. Needs considerable editing for errors in one or more of the following errors: awkward writing, grammar, punctuation, spelling and/or AP style.Not acceptable for publication.

C-/D+ — A weak, inadequate editorial/commentary, probably marked by carelessness in organizing the argument and providing sufficient or appropriate facts. Opinion might be unclear. Cannot be published without major rewrite and/or additional research. Poorly proofread. Does not meet minimal standards for coursework.

D/D- — A poor editorial/commentary that demonstrates only minimal ability to acquire, organize and present facts and opinion. Needs complete rewrite and might show carelessness in editing and proofreading.

F — An unacceptable editorial/commentary for reasons including some or all of the following: Error in fact, misspelled proper name, plagiarism or libel.

Zero — Failure to do assignment.