UCSC; Psychology courses; Tonay; 2009

Sometimes students do not understand that an "A" paper is actually not an average paper. Besides the CONTENT (A=demonstrates an unusually sophisticated, clear grasp of at least 90% of the course content--i.e., 9 out of every 10 concepts presented!--and the ability to apply it appropriately; B=demonstrates a sound, clear grasp of much (at least 80%) of the course content and the ability to apply it appropriately; C=demonstrates some grasp (at least 70%) of some of the course content and the ability apply it, with some or many concepts misunderstood or lacking; F=demonstrates an insufficient grasp of the course content)...college papers are also graded on the way in which they are written, which is why it is so important to see a writing tutor or at least have someone else proofread your work.

What follows was taken directly from the UCSC TA teaching manual; note how difficult it is to achieve an A paper (which is why to earn an A, you need to write several drafts):

An "A" paper
An "A" paper conveys immediately a sense of the person behind the words; an individual voice that speaks firmly and clearly from the page.
The title and lead sentences work smoothly to indicate the direction, scope, and tone of the whole piece. The reader feels the writer's assurance and is in no doubt about what is being communicated.
The writing is packed with information. Examples or comparisons are carefully chosen and have a "just right" feel to them. Occasionally there is a vivid image or deft comparison.
Organization of material is logical, clearly developed. The reader does not stumble or hesitate over the sequence of facts and ideas. Transitions from one point to another are smooth, almost imperceptible.
Sentences are varied, with rhythms and emphasis suited to the meaning. Phrasing is often fluent and graceful. Sentences read well aloud. Word choices, especially verbs, are accurate, sensitive to connotations. There is an absence of "clutter" -- heavy or hackneyed expressions used instead of a short word that means the same thing.
Punctuation is appropriate, giving the reader helpful or necessary signposts for pauses and stops.
There are no mechanical errors (grammar and spelling).
An "A" paper is not flawless; there is no such thing in writing. But it reflects a writer who is in full control of both material and language. Control is the key word here: The reader feels expert guidance.

A "B" paper
A "B" paper has the characteristics of an "A" paper, with the following flaws: Information may be thin. The reader wants and needs more. Examples or illustrations may feel slightly forced or exaggerated.
Organization is clear; the reader does not confuse the sequence of information or ideas. However, transitions (especially between paragraphs) may be awkward or abrupt.
Sentences tend to be of similar structure and are occasionally awkward or wordy. Relative clauses may be poorly placed.
Word choices are workable and clear, though verbs may lack bite or strength. Punctuation is occasionally confusing.

A "C" paper
A "C" paper is characterized by awkwardness throughout. It does not read smoothly aloud.
Information tends to be adequate, but barely sufficient for clarity. Organization is occasionally confused, especially between sentences. The reader sometimes has to stop and reread material to be sure of its meaning. Sentences have little or no structural variety. Phrases are often awkwardly placed. (Modifiers, especially adverbs, are sometimes too far from the word they modify.) Diction is usually characterized by wordiness and cliches. Unnecessary words and phrases make the writing loose.
There are several grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors. A "C" paper will do: It's adequate, but it gives the reader an impression of fuzziness and lack of assurance on the part of the writer. The reader has to work to understand what he or she is reading.

A "D" or "F" paper
The main impression is one of haste, carelessness, lack of attention, or simply an inability to draft even direct or simple statements.
The paper may make some sense, but only if the reader struggles to find it. The writer obviously has scanty control of the material.
There are numerous structural and spelling errors, and the visual presentation is sloppy.

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