Total: 100 Points - Essays are scored across four categories with detailed performance levels.
1. Knowledge & Understanding of the Topic (30 points)
Excellent (27–30)
Demonstrates deep understanding of the topic. Ideas are accurate, insightful, and show maturity beyond surface-level treatment. The student clearly understands the issue and its broader implications.
Proficient (21–26)
Demonstrates solid understanding of the topic with minor gaps. Ideas are mostly accurate and relevant but may lack depth or nuance.
Developing (15–20)
Shows basic understanding of the topic but ideas may be simplistic, partially inaccurate, or underdeveloped.
Limited (0–14)
Demonstrates minimal or flawed understanding of the topic. Content is vague, incorrect, or off-topic.
2. Content Development & Critical Thinking (30 points)
Excellent (27–30)
Ideas are thoughtfully developed, well-supported, and show strong critical thinking. The essay reflects original reasoning, meaningful reflection, and clear personal engagement with the topic.
Proficient (21–26)
Ideas are developed and supported, though analysis may be uneven or predictable. Some original thinking is present.
Developing (15–20)
Ideas are present but insufficiently developed. Essay relies heavily on generalizations or common perspectives with limited analysis.
Limited (0–14)
Ideas are poorly developed, repetitive, or largely unsupported. Little evidence of independent thinking.
3. Clarity, Organization & Writing Quality (30 points)
Excellent (27–30)
Writing is clear, coherent, and engaging. Organization enhances understanding. Language is effective and appropriate, with minimal errors that do not distract from meaning.
Proficient (21–26)
Writing is generally clear and organized. Some awkward phrasing or minor errors may be present but do not significantly hinder comprehension.
Developing (15–20)
Writing lacks consistent clarity or organization. Errors in grammar, syntax, or structure sometimes interfere with understanding.
Limited (0–14)
Writing is unclear or disorganized. Frequent errors significantly impede comprehension.
4. AI Use & Academic Integrity Disclosure (10 points)
Excellent (9–10)
Any AI use is fully and honestly disclosed. The student clearly explains how AI was used (if at all), and the essay demonstrates original thought, personal voice, and independent reasoning.
Proficient (6–8)
AI use is disclosed but explanation lacks detail, or the balance between AI assistance and original work is unclear. Student voice is mostly evident.
Developing (3–5)
AI use appears excessive, unclear, or minimally disclosed. Essay shows limited originality or relies heavily on generic phrasing.
No Credit (0–2)
AI use is not disclosed, is misrepresented, or the essay shows strong indicators of being primarily AI-generated. This may result in further review or disqualification.
AI Disclosure Statement: AI may be used, but it cannot replace the student's thinking. The goal is not avoidance, but authorship. Applicants must include a brief statement at the end of the essay indicating whether AI tools were used. If used, students must specify the tool and how it was used (e.g., brainstorming ideas, outlining, grammar feedback). Failure to disclose AI use may result in point deductions or disqualification.