A         100-95

A-        94-90

A’s are reserved for outstanding work.  The paper is well organized, with an original and persuasive thesis.  The thesis is complex, argumentative, and clearly articulated.  The thesis is supported with specific and accurate quotations, close reading, clear explanations, and compelling arguments.  Vocabulary is both elegant and precise.  Transitions between ideas and paragraphs are smooth and logical.  “A” work is virtually free from mechanical errors including grammar, diction, and spelling.

B+       89-87

B          86-83

B-                82-80

B’s are given to good work.  “B” work has no serious errors, but shows some need for complexity or sophistication of analysis.  The thesis may be sound but predictable; it may be either original without being persuasive, or be persuasive without originality.  The thesis may fail to demonstrate critical thinking.  Transitions between ideas and paragraphs may not be entirely smooth.  “B” work may have minor mechanical errors including grammar, diction, and spelling.

C+       79-77

C         76-73

C-                72-70

C’s are given to satisfactory work.  Though the student demonstrates an adequate grasp of the material, the thesis may be weak, and/or the student fails to support the thesis.  The thesis may not be argumentative.  Points may be made, but not clearly or convincingly.  Arguments may be offered, but are not supported and/or are clearly flawed.  Argument may be simplistic.  Transitions between ideas and paragraphs may be awkward or illogical.  Errors are made in grammar, language usage and spelling that hinder comprehension.  A “C-“ represents the lowest quality of work acceptable from an upper division English Major.

NOTE: to use English 339 to fulfill the requirements of the English Major, you must earn a C- or better.

D+       69-67

D         66-63

D-                62-60

D’s are given to unsatisfactory work.  Papers fail to accomplish the task assigned.  D work may lack a thesis, and/or is not based on accurate information.  It may not contain logical arguments, or the argument may be excessively simplistic.  The student may not demonstrate an adequate understanding of the material.  Thought does not flow smoothly or logically.  Significant errors in grammar and language usage confound comprehension and are below the minimum standards for an upper division English Major.

F          59-0

Failure.  Work may be not turned in, it may plagiarize, or it may not be within the scope of the assignment.  Grammar, spelling, and language usage may be below the minimum standards for an upper division English Major. 

Warning: Plagiarism results in an automatic F for the course grade.  Review the “Honor Code” section in the Schedule of Courses