How do you grade creative writing/composition?

[Stacy]

We are really slacking in this area, mainly because I simply can't figure out a good way to grade writing/composition.

Any suggestions? Tips?

Anyone use rubrics? If so, can you share some tips for coming up with a rubric for composition?

[TamieJP]

I don't grade writing but I do correct it and ask for more details or information if the paper is not clear.

"What do you mean Papa went away crying"? I do not understand WHY he went away.

Things like that.

I might give the paper back up to three times but never more than 3 times. Usually, just once.

[Jill in MN]

Now that I am not homeschooling I am working for our University's engineering department, grading the student's writing. Quite honestly, if the writing is clear, correct grammar, verb tenses consistent, topic sentences for the paragraphs (actually having paragraphs brings the paper up to a B), logical flow of thought, and following the assignment's instructions, then the paper has an A.

[RobinS]

Now that I am not homeschooling I am working for our University's engineering department, grading the student's writing. Quite honestly, if the writing is clear, correct grammar, verb tenses consistent, topic sentences for the paragraphs (actually having paragraphs brings the paper up to a B), logical flow of thought, and following the assignment's instructions, then the paper has an A.

That's about how I graded lab reports.