The background paper will be graded using the following "Write Traits" categories.  Use this as a guide to help you proof your paper.  Be sure to include a bibliography at the end of your background paper. 

 

STIMULATING IDEAS                                                                                                          

--thoroughly informs readers                                                                                             

--focuses on interesting aspects of a specific subject that is expressed in a

   thesis statement

            --effectively supports the thesis

 

LOGICAL ORGANIZATION                                                                                      

            --includes a clearly developed beginning, middle, and end                                                   

            --presents supporting information in an organized manner

 

ENGAGING VOICE                                                                                                                

            --speaks in a sincere and knowledgeable way                                                           

            --speaks in a manner appropriate for scholarly work (third person)

 

ORIGINAL WORD CHOICE                                                                                      

            --explains or defines any unfamiliar terms                                                                          

            --employs an appropriate level of language

 

SMOOTH-READING SENTENCES                                                                           

--flows smoothly from one idea to the next                                                                       

--appropriate transitions used for clarity and flow

 

CORRECT, ACCURATE COPY                                                                                               

            --adheres to the rules of grammar, spelling, and punctuation                                              

            --follows the appropriate format for research papers

   (including correct documentation--bibliography)