Overview
Essay Question (Choose one of the following topics and compose an essay of at least 2 pages. Essays should be written in Times New Roman or Arial, 12 point font, and double-spaced. You are to submit your completed essay to Canvas in the provided drop box. Submission must be in a Word document. No other format will be accepted.)
How did the geography of Mesopotamia and Egypt shape their cultures?
Compare and contrast Sumerian and Egyptian forms of religion.
What factors contributed to the success of the Persian Empire?
Compare and contrast the strengths and weaknesses of the Davidic dynasty in the Hebrew Kingdom.
Essay Rubric
Essay Rubric
Criteria Ratings Points
Presentation
GoodLanguage is clearly organized. Correct word usage, punctuation, sentence structure, and grammar; correct citation of sources; minimal to no spelling errors; absolutely no run-on sentences or comma splices.
15 pts
AverageSentence structure and grammar strong despite occasional lapses; punctuation and citation style often used correctly.
10 pts
PoorHuge problems in sentence structure and grammar. Frequent major errors in citation style, punctuation, and spelling. May have many (more than five) run-on sentences, sentence fragments, and comma splices
5 pts
FailVery difficult to understand owing to major problems in mechanics.
0 pts
/15 pts
Content
GoodEvident, understandable, appropriate for thesis. Excellent transitions from point to point. Paragraphs support solid topic sentences.
15 pts
AverageGenerally clear and appropriate, though may wander occasionally. May have a few unclear transitions, or a few paragraphs without strong topic sentences.
10 pts
PoorUnclear, often because thesis is weak or non-existent. Transitions confusing and unclear. Few topic sentences.
5 pts
FailNo evidence structure or organization.
0 pts
/15 pts
Choose a submission type