| Dimension | Exceptional (5) | Proficient (4) | Satisfactory (3) | Limited (2) | Poor (1) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Defence of Positon | The defence of position is based on convincing and logical arguments. Case studies and/or examples have been carefully chosen. There is a strong relationship between the case studies and/or examples chosen and the position taken. The arguments presented are consistent and forceful, demonstrating originality, maturity, and insight. | The defence of position is based on well considered arguments. Case studies and/or examples have been well chosen. There is a clear relationship between the case studies and/or examples chosen and the position taken. The arguements presented are logical and clearly defined. | The defence of position is based on one or more adequate arguments. Appropriate case sudies and/or examples have been chosen. A relationship between the case studies and/or examples chosen and the position taken has been established. While the arguments are generally sound, they may lack somewhat in persuasiveness. | The defence of position is based on emotion and/or simple assertions than on logic and/or the arguments presented are confused, contradictory, vague, and/or lack development. Case studies and/or examples are related to the issue but may be unrelated to the position taken. The relationship between the case studies and/or examples and the position taken may be hard to determine. | The defence of position is weak: i.e. a position is hard to determine OR little or no attept has been made to defend the position taken. Case studies and/or examples may be inappropriate to the position. There is little or no relationship drawn between the examples and/or case studies chosen and the position taken. |
| Discussion of value positions | The discussion of the alternative value positions is thoughtful and reveals an insightful understanding of the choices inherent in the issue. | The discussion of the alternative value positions reveals a clear understanding of the issue. Some of the critical features of these positions are identified. | The discussion of the alternative value positions reveals an adequate understanding of the issue. | The discussion of the alternative value positions reveals an uncertain or vague understanding of the issue. The value positions may not be clearly related to the issue. | Two or more alternative value positions may not be indicated or the discussion of alternative positions is minimal. An inaccurate or incomplete understanding of the issue is demonstrated. |
| Presentation of Examples or Case Studies | The examples or case studies selected are relevant, accurate, and comprehensively developed, revealing a mature and insightful understanding of social studies content. | The examples or case studies selected are relevant, accurate, and clearly developed, revealing a good understanding of social studies content. | The examples or case studies selected are relevant and adequately developed, but may contain some factual errors. The development of the case studies/examples reveals an adequate understanding of the social studies content. | The examples or case studies selected, while relevant, are vaguely or incompletely developed, and/or contain inaccuracies, revealing a restricted understanding of social studies content. | The examples or case studies selected are relevant, but a minimal attempt has been made to develop them and/or the examples or case studies contain major errors revealing a lack of understanding of social studies content |
| Quality of Language and Expression | The content is organized in such a way that the writer's meaning is unquestionably evident. The expression reveals a mature and controlled use of language including correct convention, effective syntax, and precise and specific vocabulary. | The content is organized in such a way that the writer's meaning is clear. The expression reveals effective use of language including correct conventions and appropriate syntax and accurate vocabulary. | The content is organized in such a way that the writer's meaning is generally clear. The expression reveals an adequate use of language, including correct conventions. Syntax may be awkward, and vocabulary over-generalized. | The content is organized in such a way that the writer's meaning is vague or unclear. The expression reveals a lack of assurance in conventions, syntax, and vocabulary. | The content is disorganized or leaves in doubt the writer's meaning. The expression reveals serious faults in conventions, syntax, and vocabulary. |