Standard	A	B	C	D
Thesis	Has a precise and compelling controlling idea, thesis, claim or question	Has a clear controlling idea, thesis, claim, or questions	Has a comprehensible implicit thesis, claim, or question. (It is not explicitly stated, but can be inferred)	Controlling idea, thesis / claim, or question is not clear.
Evidence, Analysis, and Persuasion	Components of MEAL are all presented on a consistent basis. Supporting arguments include highly relevant, accurate and persuasive evidence. Thoroughly explains and analyzes the connection between all evidence and arguments being made	Components of MEAL are mostly present. Supporting arguments include mostly relevant, accurate and persuasive evidence. Mostly clear and thoughtful explanation of how the evidence presented supports each argument.	Components of MEAL are presented sometimes Supporting arguments include some relevant, accurate and persuasive evidence. Limited explanation of how the evidence presented supports each argument.	Components of MEAL are not clearly presented. Supporting arguments maybe inaccurate, irrelevant, and is not persuasive. Inaccurate explanation of how the evidence supports each argument.
Language	The written script and oral presentation includes many different language sentence starters learned in class (language connectors for compare and contrast, transition phrases) These devices are used with great sophistication and creativity.	The written script and oral presentation includes many different language sentence starters learned in class (language connectors for compare and contrast, transition phrases) These devices are used consistently.	The written script and oral presentation includes some different language sentence starters learned in class (language connectors for compare and contrast, transition phrases) These devices may be used incorrectly in some cases.	The written script and oral presentation includes little to none of the language sentence starters learned in class (language connectors for compare and contrast, transition phrases) These devices are often used incorrectly.
Organization	Each argument clearly flows in support of an overall structure. Consistent, effective transitions develop ideas and arguments logically.	Each argument supports an overall structure. Usually uses effective transitions to connect ideas and arguments.	Most arguments support the overall structure. Consistent, effective transitions develop ideas and arguments logically.	Each argument clearly flows in support of an overall structure. Consistent, effective transitions develop ideas and arguments logically.

This is a sample rubric adapted for ENL learners. Note the specific language focus based on language target for the unit.