Guilford College Writing Manual

In its treatment of subject, the A paper:

• makes an unusually perceptive response to the assignment, teaching the reader something of value
• engages its topic in a comprehensive, original, and probing way
• may display passionate curiosity.
• features thinking characterized by mature complexity and by awareness of the larger significance of ideas (key words here include "implication," "ramification," "interrelationship," "metaphor").

In its organization, the A paper:

• has a fresh, original organizing principle that sparks the entire paper
• has a clear and well supported thesis
• is clearly focused throughout, with all pieces fitting smoothly
• progresses clearly (e.g., logically or intuitively or with cumulative force)
• flows seamlessly by virtue of paragraph unity and unobtrusive transitions
• imparts an overall feeling of wholeness and unusual clarity.

In its content, the A paper:

• brings the main point to life with arresting examples and details
• provides solid, convincing, unbiased evidence
• weaves expert opinion, where required, seamlessly into the writer's own text.

In its style, the A paper:

• features vigorous, concise, graceful language, reflecting nuance and passion
• contains inventive, sometimes memorable word choice
• uses mature, lively, emphatic and varied sentences, clearly linked
• has appropriate, effective rhythm
• compels the reader with its authentic, sure voice
• possesses an appropriate, engaging tone that enhances the writer's purpose
• has strong, effective energy.

In terms of rules and conventions, the A paper:

• shows mastery of most of the grammar and usage conventions of standard American English (i.e., the paper is free of fragments, comma splices, run-ons, errors in agreement, and the like)
• is free of spelling errors
• properly uses the MLA guidelines for bibliography and in-text citation.