Grading Rubric

Grading

English 622/ Writing and Reporting the News II

An A story would be published with minimal editing. It has a clear focus, strong lead, strong nut graf, strong structure and thorough information. The reader has no questions.

A B story would be published after moderate editing and perhaps some additional reporting.

A C story would be held for publication because it needs lots more information and revision.

A D story would be kicked back and out of the newsroom.

Over this, you have great control. Stories fail, in general, because the reporter didn’t put enough time or effort into the research, the interviewing, and/or the writing. Also, please remember your grade will reflect effort and risks taken.

When in doubt, here are some questions to ask yourself:

• Is the subject is timely? Does it have an impact on readers? Does the story answer “So what? Why now?” In short, does the story have a strong news core?
• Does the story have a clear purpose? What is the one thing the reader will learn?
• Does the story have a clear focus? What is the one thing the story is about?
• Is the story reported thoroughly? Does it have adequate sources? Background? Explanation? Statistics? Are there any information holes?
• Does the lead grab the reader? Does the lead shine a light into the heart of the story, as famed writer John McPhee says.
• Does the nutgraf/billboard state the story’s point clearly and concisely?
• Is the story accurate? Balanced? Fair?
• Does the story go beyond the obvious?
• Is the structure strong? Could the story be organized better?
• Are the quotes worth quoting? Did you quote fact?
• Does the story deliver on the promise in the lead and nutgraf/billboard?
• Is the writing clear and colorful and concise?
• Is the writing grammatically correct? How’s the usage?
• Does the writing follow AP style?
• Did the story tell effectively a complex issue?
• Is the story the appropriate length?
• Does the end leave the reader with a completed taste in his/her mouth? Did the final gong sound?