Guilford College Writing Manual

In its treatment of subject, the B paper:

• develops a main idea in depth and shows independence of thought
• contains thinking that goes beyond the obvious
• is likely executed with less originality and energy than is the A paper, and usually does not make the same inventive leaps to new meaning.

In its organization the B paper:

• has an evident organizing principle
• has a clear thesis that may need more support
• is clearly focused
• utilizes smooth transitions and varied sentence structure
• has a conclusive closing paragraph that establishes the paper's significance.

In its content the B paper:

• supports the main point thoroughly with appropriate examples
• brings in good, objective evidence to prove points
• offers expert opinion honestly to bolster the thesis.

In its style the B paper:

• contains clear, readable, and concise language
• uses appropriate word choice that is precise and sometimes imaginative
• has rather mature, clearly structured, varied sentences
• has an appropriate, fresh voice
• possesses an engaging tone that is consistent with the writer's purpose
• has inconsistent but sometimes effective energy.

In terms of rules and conventions the B paper:

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