Poetry

Novice

Apprentice

Veteran

Master

Ability to Captivate the Reader

Unfocused; author seems unsure of direction

(1-2 pts.)

Some focus, but lacks continuity

(3-4 pts.)

Well-focused and interests reader throughout

(5-6 pts.)

Captivates and involves reader deeply

(7-8 pts.)

Sensory Images

Difficult to visualize image or emotion

(1-3 pts.)

Some use of image, idea, or emotion

(4-6 pts.)

Clear use of sensory images to portray ideas or emotions

(7-9 pts.)

Vivid, detailed images and intensely felt emotion

(10-12 pts.)

Use of

Language

Imprecise or inappropriate choice of words

(1-2 pts.)

Expresses thoughts marginally

(3-4 pts.)

Appropriate choice of language

(5-6 pts.)

Uses rich and imaginative language

(7-8 pts.)

Punctuation

Arbitrary punctuation

(1-2 pts.)

Some meaningful punctuation

(3-4 pts.)

Punctuation meaningful throughout

(5-6 pts.)

Punctuation enhances conveyance of thoughts and images

(7-8 pts.)