the writer sets up the essay with a clear reference to the author and title of the target article

the writer provides a clear summary of the article

the writer provides a fair summary of each point s/he wants to refute

the writer provides a clear summary of the article

the writer provides effective quotations in the summary when appropriate

the writer refutes the point by considering evidence or assumptions

the writer uses explanation effectively to argue points

the writer includes ample reasons to support the counterargument (1-3)

the writer uses specific evidence to support the counterargument

the writer is logical with assumptions

the writer uses explanation effectively to argue points

the writer maintains a reasonable tone

the writer divides the essay into paragraphs with topic sentences and uses effective transitions to move between points

the writer uses effective transitions to move between points within paragraphs

the writer’s ordering seems purposeful

the writer uses a variety of effective, grammatically correct sentences

the writer stays in present tense and avoids needless shifts

the writer uses precise diction

the writer uses correct documentation and integrates quotations effectively

the essay meets the requirements of the assignment

the essay achieves what it sets out to achieve