Paper or writing assignment is responsive to and exceeds the requirements given in the instructions. It responds to assigned or selected topic; demonstrates insight beyond what is required in some meaningful way (e.g., ideas contribute a new dimension to what is known about the topic, unearths something unanticipated, etc.); is substantive and evidence based; demonstrates that the student has read, viewed, and considered the learning resources in the course and that the paper topic connects in a meaningful way to the course content.

Paper or writing assignment demonstrates/provides: in-depth understanding and application of concepts and issues presented in the course (e.g., insightful interpretations or analyses; accurate and perceptive parallels, ideas, opinions, and conclusions) showing that the student has absorbed the general principles and ideas presented and makes inferences about the concepts/issues or connects to them to other ideas; rich and relevant examples; thought-provoking ideas and interpretations, original thinking, new perspectives; original and critical thinking; and mastery and thoughtful/accurate application of knowledge and skills or strategies presented in the course.

Writing is scholarly and exceeds graduate-level writing expectations. The paper: uses language that is clear, concise, and appropriate; has few if any errors in spelling, grammar, and syntax; is extremely well organized, logical, clear, and never confuses the reader; uses a preponderance of original language and uses direct quotes only when necessary and/or appropriate; provides information about a source when citing or paraphrasing it; adheres to APA style with few or no mistakes (application papers). The paper represents exceptional research, scholarship, and professional style. Paper content: demonstrates significant insight and significantly contributes to the knowledge in the field; is well supported by current and pertinent research/evidence (within the previous 5 years, except for seminal, original research where appropriate) from a variety of primarily primary, peer-reviewed sources (rather than textbooks and websites); and consistently uses correct APA form and style (including citations, references, use of nonbiased language, clear organization, good editorial style, etc.) with very few or no errors (Final Paper).