Biodiversity Essay Rubric
Due: January 10 (A) and 11 (B)
Prompt: We have been discussing many environmental threats to biodiversity in class.
Of the 5 main reasons: habitat loss, invasive species, pollution, over exploitation (non-
sustainable practices) and climate change, which do you feel is the leading concern?
In a 5 paragraph essay, describe which of the concerns you chose and give 3 pieces of
evidence in support of your arguments. You should include in your essay a reason why
humans value biodiversity. In your conclusion paragraph list a possible solution to your
threat.
Addressing the Prompt (Introductory Paragraph) (5 points)
To receive all points the student must:
- accurately introduces the writing prompt – introduction sentence lets the reader
know what the essays is going to be about
- state which of the main reasons for lack of biodiversity they chose
- quickly introduce their 3 main arguments
- minimum of 5 sentences
Content (10 points)
In addition to the three pieces of evidence supporting their threat, students must also
accurately define why they believe humans value biodiversity.
- Paragraph One: Student states their first piece of evidence – can be a quote or
fact supporting the prompt. Written with correct citations of where they found
their information. Minimum of 5 sentences.
- Paragraph Two Student states their second piece of evidence. Written with
correct citations of where they found their information. Minimum of 5 sentences.
- Paragraph Three Student state their third piece of evidence. Written with correct
citations of where they found their information. Minimum of 5 sentences.
Conclusion (5 points)
To receive all points the student must:
- provide a possible solution to the threat they chose
- “wrap up” (quickly summarize all points made) evidence presented above
- minimum of 5 sentences
Work Cited and Citations (3 points)
Students should correctly cite all references used in APA format. Minimum of 2 sources
should be used.
Grammar/Spelling (2 points)
Students should spell check their work and use correct grammar
