Category

Evaluation

Comments

Introduction and theoretical underpinnings (10 points)

• Discusses the purpose of the study
• Discusses the relevance of the paper
• Captures reader’s attention

Excellent (10)
Good (8)
Acceptable (6)
Marginal (4)
Unacceptable (0)

Research question, design and methodology (20 points)

• Research question and hypotheses are clear
• Research method is clear (a literature review; data collection and analysis; a reflective essay; producing a movie or play; creating a piece of artwork; or other creative work)

Excellent (20)
Good (16)
Acceptable (12)
Marginal (8)
Unacceptable (0)

Quality of writing (10 points)

• Concise: sentences are well structured and focused
• Clear: words are used accurately and effectively, not too general 
• Vocabulary is appropriate for a general audience and for a college-level writing (no slang)
• Bibliography contains an appropriate proportion of academic papers and is carefully cited and referenced

Excellent (10)
Good (8)
Acceptable (6)
Marginal (4)
Unacceptable (0)

Ideas and structure (20 points) 

• Interesting content, demonstrates sophistication of thought
• Central research question is clearly communicated and explained
• Proposal recognizes complexity of the problem, possible contradictions and limitations

Excellent (20)
Good (16)
Acceptable (12)
Marginal (8)
Unacceptable (0)

Feasibility and preparedness of the student (20 points)

• Student clearly communicates challenges of the project
• Activities are reasonable to be accomplished within the outlined time period   
• Student possesses knowledge, practice, and skills to succeed in the project

Excellent (20)
Good (16)
Acceptable (12)
Marginal (8)
Unacceptable (0)

Quality of recommendations (20 points)

• Mentor is enthusiastic about working with the student
• Mentor is devoting sufficient time to guide the project
• Mentor is sure about the feasibility of the project
• Mentor and recommender believe that the project is worth pursuing
• Recommender is positive about the student

Excellent (20)
Good (16)
Acceptable (12)
Marginal (8)
Unacceptable (0)