An essay that "Achieves Excellence" will be distinguished in the following criteria: The writer explains the author’s ideas, position, and/or point of view using the concepts and methods addressed in Chapters 1-3 of They Say, I Say

An essay that "Achieves Excellence" will be distinguished in the following criteria:

• The writer explains the author’s ideas, position, and/or point of view using the concepts and methods addressed in Chapters 1-3 of They Say, I Say. 
• The writer identifies the reasons and/or evidence upon which the author is basing his or her position.
• The writer identifies the conclusions drawn by the author.
• The writer uses summary, paraphrase, and/or some quotation appropriately in his or her explanation of the text.
• The writer responds to the text with his or her position using the concepts and methods addressed in Chapter 4 of They Say, I Say ("Yes/No/Okay, But").
• The writer distinguishes throughout his or her position from that of the author (Chapter 5).
• The writer anticipates and responds to potential objections to his or her point of view using the concepts in Chapter 6.
• The writer defends and supports his or her position with sound evidence and reasoning.
• The writer draws well-supported conclusions about the position taken by the author.
• The writer demonstrates reading comprehension, analysis, and critical thinking.
• The writer meets the standards for effective communication (clarity, logic, precision, accuracy, significance, and fairness).
• The writer adheres to MLA guidelines for formatting, in-text citations, and the Works Cited page.
• The essay is 700-900 words and has an original title.