Name:

Date:

# of drafts needed to complete

Elements needed in the Personal Essay

Notes:

0

1

2

The topic and theme(s) selected for the essay are significant; the topic has enough relevance and depth such that the author has substantial elements to research and synthesize.

0

1

2

The point-of-view is from sufficient distance that the emotional impact and greater significance of the author’s experiences have the benefit of reflection and insight.

0

1

2

The voice of the piece is clear and authentic. The language is natural and fluid and represents the author’s genuine phrasing and tone. The reader’s interest is engaged and sustained throughout the piece.

0

1

2

The specific/concrete details used to illustrate key ideas in the essay read authentically and logically.

0

1

2

There are no wasted words throughout the essay; every sentence is essential to the development of the logic and no phrasing is generic or vague.

0

1

2

The overall flow of the piece is fluid and logical. The author’s paragraphing and organization aid the reader’s understanding of the memoir moment.

0

1

2

There are no/few surface errors in spelling, punctuation, grammar or format in the draft.

0

1

2

Overall Assessment (the overall estimation of the number of drafts you will need to complete before this piece is ready for submission into your final portfolio)

End Note:

Y

N

The draft contains all the required elements as outlined in the introductory PowerPoint and the mini-lessons related to this genre.

Y

N

There is evidence of native talent and/or drafting and genuine effort put into the piece as well as significant progress made over multiple drafts

Y

N

Conference with teacher recommended or required