Organization

Organization is the internal structure of a piece of writing, the thread of central meaning, the pattern, so long as it fits the central idea. Organizational structure can be based on comparison-contrast, deductive logic, point-by-point analysis, development of a central theme, chronological history of an event, or any of a dozen other identifiable patterns. When the organization is strong, the piece begins meaningfully and creates in the writer a sense of anticipation that is, ultimately, systematically fulfilled. Events proceed logically; information is given to the reader in the right doses at the right times so that the reader never loses interest. Connections are strong, which is another way of saying that bridges from one idea to the next hold up. The piece closes with a sense of resolution, tying up loose ends, bringing things to closure, answering important questions while still leaving the reader something to think about.

Key question: Does the organizational structure enhance the theme and make it easier to understand?

Key scoring points:

• Strong writing enhances and showcases the central idea or theme of the paper; includes a satisfying introduction and conclustion
• Developing writing is strong enough to move the reader through the text without too much confusion.
• Beginning writing lacks a clear sese of direction.

Download Organization Scoring Rubric