SCORING CAMBRIDGE WRITINGS
Scoring Rubric
1. Content
1: The essay is off-topic or lacks relevant content. The main idea is unclear or missing.
2: The essay addresses the topic but with limited development and relevance. The main idea is
somewhat clear but underdeveloped.
3: The essay is generally relevant with a clear main idea and some development. There may be
minor issues with depth or relevance.
4: The essay is well-developed, relevant, and presents a clear main idea. The content is detailed
and mostly insightful.
5: The essay is highly relevant with a thoroughly developed main idea. The content is detailed,
insightful, and offers original perspectives.
2. Communicative Achievement
1: The essay fails to achieve its purpose. The message is unclear or poorly conveyed.
2: The essay somewhat achieves its purpose but with significant gaps in clarity or effectiveness.
The message is only partially conveyed.
3: The essay generally achieves its purpose with clear communication. The message is mostly
conveyed effectively.
4: The essay effectively achieves its purpose with clear and engaging communication. The
message is well-conveyed and impactful.
5: The essay excellently achieves its purpose with highly effective and engaging communication.
The message is conveyed clearly and persuasively.
3. Language
1: The language is unclear and contains frequent errors. Vocabulary and grammar are
consistently problematic.
2: The language is somewhat clear but contains numerous errors. Vocabulary and grammar
issues affect readability.
3: The language is generally clear with occasional errors. Vocabulary and grammar are mostly
appropriate.
4: The language is clear, precise, and with few errors. Vocabulary and grammar are effective and
appropriate.
5: The language is exceptionally clear, precise, and engaging with no errors. Vocabulary and
grammar are sophisticated and highly effective.
4. Organization
1: The essay lacks clear organization. There is no logical flow or structure.
2: The essay has some organization but is poorly structured. The logical flow is inconsistent.
3: The essay is generally well-organized with a clear structure. Some transitions or connections
may be weak.
4: The essay is well-organized with a clear structure and effective transitions. The logical flow is
smooth and coherent.
5: The essay is excellently organized with a highly effective structure and seamless transitions.
The logical flow is exceptionally smooth and coherent.