Critical Thinking

The problem, issue, or question is not clearly understood. The main idea is not summarized accurately.

The issue, question, or problem is partially understood, but there is some confusion about the main issues. Some details are missing or inaccurate.

Clearly understands the question, issue, or problem of the assignment. States the main issues with clarity and accuracy.

Doesn’t recognize underlying factors.

Limited exploration and understanding of outside and/or underlying factors.

Student understands the major factors underlying the problem.  Several views/contexts are explored. Student can place the problem into the correct context.

Student not yet able to formulate hypothesis based on own ideas

Student has the ability to develop some of his/her own ideas, however, is not yet able to integrate the ideas of others

Student has mastered the ability of developing his/her own hypothesis; student integrates research of others into their own work when appropriate.

Data/evidence does not support topic

Majority of data/evidence supports topic

Data/evidence clearly and effectively supports topic

Fails to identify conclusions, implications, and consequences or present conclusions in a clear summary

Presents conclusions as relative and only loosely related to consequences. Implications may include only vague reference to conclusions

Clearly presents conclusions and consequences based on data and evidence

Work is poorly organized and lacks logical connections. Several grammatical errors hinder understanding.

Organizational structure is clear, although weakness exists. Some grammatical errors exist.

Organized, clear and logical, with few grammatical errors