Outstanding

Proficient

Emerging

Attempt Made

Character

Identifies the main character with vivid details; identifies more than 2 character traits and uses a lot of evidence from the story to support each one

Identifies the main character and describes what he/she looks like.  Identifies 2 character traits and uses the story to support each one.

May not clearly identify the main character; or missing description; may not identify 2 character traits; or does not give clear story support.

Missing more than one element.

Conflict/Story Problem

Story Problem is clearly identified in vivid detail; gives several different steps taken by the main character to solve the problem, each with details; Clearly explains whether or not the story problem was resolved.  Uses evidence from the story.

Story problem is identified with at least 2 steps taken to solve it.  Tells whether conflict (problem) was resolved (solved). Uses evidence from the story for support.

Conflict (problem) description is attempted but unclear.  May be missing steps to solve or other component.  Evidence is missing or inaccurate.

Conflict description is missing 2 or more parts; or it is incorrect.

Cover Scene

Cover scene is clearly described in vivid detail. It is easy to see why the author chose this scene for its importance.

Cover scene is described, and the reader can tell why the author thought this scene was selected.

Cover scene description may be vague or it is difficult to tell why the author chose this scene.

Cover scene is not described and its relevance is unknown.

Theme or Author’s Message

Identifies theme or message succinctly using vivid language and detail and story evidence

Correctly identifies a theme or message from the story using evidence for support.

Theme or message may not be clearly explained or evidence is missing.

It is difficult to understand how this message or theme is related to the book.