CMPT140 Paper Marking Scheme

Name: ______________________________________ Total Marks: ________ / 35

Thesis

[10]
  • Clear, concise definition of the issue being tackled.
  • Issue deals with computers and society (i.e., not purely technical, but something about the impact of computer technology on society).
  • Statement of paper's thesis (position on the issue).
  • Statement of opposing/alternate views on the issue.
  • Clear definition of terms used in thesis.

Argument Development

[10]
  • At least two or three points in support of the paper's thesis.
  • At least one or two points in support of opposing/alternate positions.
  • Main points are clear and distinct (not using the same point twice by rephrasing it slightly).
  • Respectful and objective rebuttals, if any, of opposing positions (rebuttal of every opposing point is not absolutely necessary).

Organization

[5]
  • Clear and concise introduction and conclusion sections.
  • Clear outline (introduction, what the main points are, conclusion) (outline need not be separately drafted, but should be clear from the organization of the paper).
  • Paragraph divisions at appropriate intervals following the paper's outline and train of thought.

Diction/Grammar

[5]
  • Clear and fluent use of language; concise and not flowery. No run-on sentences.
  • Proper English grammar, punctuation, and spelling.

Sources

[5]
  • A reasonable number (at least 2-3, not more than 10-20) of appropriate and reliable references cited.
  • Encyclopedias (e.g., Wikipedia) are not themselves authoritative sources, however they may be useful in leading you to primary sources.
  • Concise background context of each source and its relevance to the issue.
  • Appropriate use of quotes from sources to illustrate / back up argument.
  • Clear and sufficient bibliographic referencing:
    • Does not need to follow MLA style, but should be enough for the reader to find the source and know what authority it comes from.
    • Published work is preferable, but webpages may be cited if they are authoritative primary sources.
    • References should be clear and concise. No long, inscrutable URLs. (The MLA doesn't recommend including URLs in citations.)