Scoring Criteria for the CLAST Essay

The essay subtest is scored independently by two evaluators, each of whom assigns the composition a score of from 1 to 6, for a possible total of 12 points. Papers judged to be off-topic (in other words, that do not respond to the assignment) are given an “OT” instead of a numerical score. Below are the scoring criteria for the essay subtest according to the 6-point scale.

Score of 1. The paper generally presents a thesis that is vaguely worded or weakly asserted. Support, if any, tends to be rambling and/or superficial. The writer uses language that often becomes tangled, incoherent, and thus confusing. Errors in sentence structure, usage and mechanics frequently occur.

Score of 2. The paper usually presents a thesis. The writer provides support that tends to be sketchy and/or illogical. Sentence structure may be simplistic and disjointed. Errors in sentence structure, usage, and mechanics frequently interfere with the writer's ability to communicate the purpose.

Score of 3. The paper presents a thesis and often suggests a plan of development, which is usually carried out. The writer provides support that tends toward generalized statements or a listing. In general, the support is neither sufficient nor clear enough to be convincing. Sentence structure tends to be pedestrian and often repetitious. Errors in sentence structure, usage, and mechanics sometimes interfere with the writer's ability to communicate the purpose.

Score of 4. The paper presents a thesis and often suggests a plan of development, which is usually carried out. The writer provides enough supporting detail to accomplish the purpose of the paper. The writer makes competent use of language and sometimes varies the sentence structure. Occasional errors in sentence structure, usage and mechanics do not interfere with the writer's ability to communicate the purpose.

Score of 5. The paper presents or implies a thesis and provides convincing, specific support. The writer's ideas are usually fresh, mature, and extensively developed. The writer demonstrates a command of language and uses a variety of structures. Control of sentence structures, usage, and mechanics, despite an occasional flaw, contributes to the writer's ability to communicate the purpose.

Score of 6. The paper presents or implies a thesis that is developed with noticeable coherence. The writer's ideas are usually substantive, sophisticated, and carefully elaborated. The writer's choice of language and structure is precise and purposeful, often to the point of being polished. Control of sentence structure, usage, and mechanics, despite an occasional flaw, contributes to the writer's ability to communicate the purpose.