Rubric for Letter Writing

The first paragraph should restate the idea of civic behavior presented by the religious leader to whom the letter is addressed, and should state whether the student agrees or disagrees with the relevancy of that concept to today's society.

Paragraphs two and three should give specific reasons for the student's agreement or disagreement, and should use concrete examples from society that support or contradict the relevancy of the tradition's view of civic behavior. (For example, I disagree with the concept of Zakat because in the United States, while people are encouraged to share their time, talent and treasures, I think it would be unreasonable and unfair to specify an amount to be donated to charity. Many of the families in our country today are experiencing the effects of a sluggish economy, and there is barely enough money to cover necessities, let alone charity!)

Paragraph four should respectfully restate the writer's position and ask the religious leader to consider and respond to the opinions shared by the writer

Sample of Scoring Rubric for Letter Writing

1. This letter does not voice agreement or disagreement, or it does so only minimally. It does not accurately restate the religious position.

2. This letter states the religious position and the writer's agreement or disagreement. It does not relate the writer's opinion to concrete current realities.

3. This letter states the religious position and the writer's agreement or disagreement. The opinion is grounded in current situations. There is no conclusion.

4. This letter meets all the criteria and is logically and effectively written. It presents the author's opinion, relates it to current society and respectfully acknowledges the receiver's viewpoint. It requests consideration and response.