Assessment of Papers

Papers are evaluated according to the following standards, with particular emphasis on the first three:

A. Mastery and understanding of the history we studied in preparation for this exercise. Is the paper historically accurate? Does it show a good understanding of events and concepts that are relevant to your argument? See PWG #4, 5.

B. Analytical sophistication. Does the essay show sophisticated critical and historical thinking? See PWG #5.

C. Persuasiveness. Did you articulate a clear argument that answers an arguable question about the topic and did you present enough evidence to support it? Did you consider the most significant, most relevant evidence and not just whatever supports your argument? See PWG #1, 4.

D. Quality of writing: clarity of sentences, organization, composition, integration of quotations. See PWG #2, 3, 4a, 6.

E. Documentation. Did you properly cite the sources of all your evidence? See Citation page.

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