Grading Criteria

The Religious Studies department offers a helpful guide that the faculty use when assessing papers. These criteria are common factors that the faculty felt were important to every assignment. For a more in-depth explanation for how these criteria were developed, click here

Introduction and Thesis Statement
A clear purpose and focus should be articulated in the introduction, along with an explicitly proposed conceptual framework, methodology, and structure expressed in the thesis statement.

Argument
The argument should progress logically, displaying a solid understanding of the position taken and the context of the discussion. It should be supported by appropriate examples and show evidence of use and interaction with resources. Ideally, it should also give evidence of originality/creativity of analysis, independence of thought, quality of research, and an awareness of the audience.

Conclusion
The conclusion should be expressed with clarity, flow from and reflect the ground of the argument, demonstrate the thesis statement, and convince the audience.

Style
There should be appropriate (scholarly) diction, a clear connection between title and text, sentences and paragraphs. Resources should be consistently cited and documented and correct grammar, syntax, and spelling should be employed.