Lesson 4: Research Paper
Handout 1

Social Action Project: Language Arts Assessment

The student will write a report describing the philanthropic organization he or she has chosen, its history, the fund-raising activities, the purpose of the organization, the role of volunteers, and the service components. It should include excerpts from an interview with a leader in the group, as well as the unique features of this organization. The student must also describe his or her involvement with the group and plans, if any, for future participation with this organization and its cause. There must be evidence of prewriting, drafting, proofreading, editing, revising, and polishing. This paper must be at least five pages in length, word processed using New Times Roman 12 point font and double-spaced.

Ratings: 3=exceeds content standards 2=meets content standards
  1=below content standards 0=unscorable


 
A. Focus/ Organization 3 2 1 0
1. Topic clearly stated in introduction        
2. Writing is focused on the topic        
3. Supporting facts presented in logical order        
4. Transitional words and phrases are used        
5. Appropriate conclusion        
         
 
B. Content and Research 3 2 1 0
1. All required information has been included        
2. Clear, interesting vocabulary and details        
3. Used technical and non-technical resources for research        
         
 
C. Grammar, Usage, Mechanics, and Spelling 3 2 1 0
1. Complete Sentences        
2. Subject-verb agreement        
3. Appropriate punctuation and capitalization        
4. Few or no spelling errors        
         
 
D. Process Writing 3 2 1 0
1. Prewriting and drafts are attached        
2. Editing and revisions are apparent        
3. Submitted work is a polished copy        
         
 
E. Bibliography 3 2 1 0
1. Has at least three sources        
2. Written in correct style        
         
TOTAL POINTS=
÷ 5 =
(average)
         
 
A. Taking Action 3 2 1 0
1. Positive involvement with the organization is evident        
2. Understanding of the social issue is clearly demonstrated