Annotation: The reader answers that "a picture would have been a good text feature" and it would show how the stage without a curtain or set pieces would look. The reader concludes that he/she "would like to see all that because usually now there is more on stage." The reader does answer the question, paraphrases ideas from the text, and draws a comparison between modern and Elizabethan stage setting. To improve this response, the reader needs to define how having a picture of the Elizabethan stage would make the text easier to understand.

Annotation: The reader responds that "subtitles because this piece has not got any" to signal when topics change and "graphics...because they could give you an idea of what this stuff actually looks like." The reader does answer the question and tells why these additions are needed but does not provide any text support. To improve this response, for example, the reader could indicate a needed subtitle, where it should be located within the text, and how having that subtitle would make the text or that portion of text easier to understand.

Annotation: The reader responds that "pictures should have been added" so that a better idea of "'circular wooden buildings with an open courtyard in the middle, much like the innyards in wich plays were often performed.'" The reader concludes by adding the details of "no curtain across the stage and not much senery." The reader does answer the question and provides text support for the desired picture. To improve this response, the reader should explain how having a more specific idea of the theater would make the text easier to understand. For example the reader might say that having a picture of the inside of the theater would help him/her to understand the difference in comfort for the groundlings versus those who could afford to pay more to see the play.

Annotation: The reader answers that "Bold print because people can say that, that is important" and continues that bold print helps a reader know what should be learned. The reader also indicates that "italics fancy writing" helps a reader know to learn the meaning of italicized words. The reader answers the question and explains in a general way a standard function of bold and italicized print. To improve this response, the reader should indicate a word/s that should be in bold print and why those words are important to the comprehension of the text.

Score 3

The response demonstrates an understanding of the complexities of the text.

• Addresses the demands of the question
• Effectively uses text-relevant¹ information to clarify or extend understanding

Score 2

The response demonstrates a general understanding of the text.

• Partially addresses the demands of the question
• Uses text-relevant¹ information to show understanding

Score 1

The response demonstrates a minimal understanding of the text.

• Minimally addresses the demands of the question
• Uses minimal information to show some understanding of the text in relation to the question

Score 0

The response is completely incorrect, irrelevant to the question, or missing.²

Note 1:

Text-relevant: This information may or may not be an exact copy (quote) of the text but is clearly related to the text and often shows an analysis and/or interpretation of important ideas. Students may incorporate information to show connections to relevant prior experience as appropriate.

Note 2:

An exact copy (quote) or paraphrase of the question that provides no new relevant information will receive a score of "0".

Rubric Document Date: June 2003