Pass/Fail Rubric for the M.A. in English Composition Comprehensive Exam

A passing response does all of the following:

•  meets the specified requirements of the task;

•  demonstrates knowledge of the subject matter relevant to the task;

•  reflects accurate understanding of concepts and terminology;

•  develops arguments and/or presents information in a coherent, well-focused manner

•  includes insightful analysis;

•  integrates appropriate evidence, including examples and previous scholarship, to support assertions and develop arguments; *

•  appropriately cites sources of information where required;

•  features clear, accurate sentence structure and word choice.

A failing response does some or all of the following:

•  neglects major aspects of the task;

•  demonstrates weak knowledge of the subject matter relevant to the task;

•  frequently misuses concepts and terminology;

•  shows incoherent, fragmented development of arguments and/or presentation of information;

•  includes little analysis, relying mainly on summary and reporting;

•  often fails to integrate appropriate evidence, including examples and previous scholarship, to support assertions and develop arguments; *

•  neglects to cite sources appropriately where required;

•  features pervasive problems in sentence structure and word choice.

 

* Please refer to the "Examination Procedures Bulletin," for further information about incorporating source materials in exam responses.