Rubric for Reflective Essay – Mountains Event/Alternative Screening

Course: Picturing Paradise: Miami on Film Assignment: Reflective Essay on the Monica Sorelle Event OR Alternative Screening Total Points: 100

Criteria Excellent (20 pts)

Good (16-19 pts)

Satisfactory (12-15 pts)

Needs Improvement

(0-11 pts)

Points Earned

Engagement with Event

Thoughtfully engages with Monica Sorelle’s and the other panelists’ insights, demonstrating a deep understanding of the film and themes. Uses specific examples from the event.

Engages with Sorelle’s discussion, showing an understanding of key ideas with some examples.

Addresses the event but lacks depth or specificity in engagement. Few examples provided.

Minimal or unclear engagement with the event. Little to no specific references.

Critical Reflection

Demonstrates strong critical thinking by connecting Sorelle’s work to course themes and personal insights. Raises meaningful questions or reflections.

Shows a clear reflection with connections to course themes but lacks depth in analysis. Some personal insight is evident.

Reflection is present but somewhat surface-level, with limited connections to the course or personal insights.

Reflection is unclear, lacks analysis, or does not connect to the course themes.

Connection to Course Concepts

Skillfully integrates key ideas from the course (e.g., visual storytelling, environmental humanities, diasporic identity) to analyze the screening.

Connects to relevant course concepts but may not fully explore their significance.

Some course concepts are mentioned but not well-developed in relation to Sorelle’s work.

Little to no connection to course material. References are vague or missing.

Incorporation of Tatiana McInnis’ Work

Thoughtfully engages with a key idea from Tatiana McInnis' chapter, making clear and insightful connections between her arguments and Sorelle’s work.

Incorporates a relevant concept from McInnis’ chapter but could explore the connection more deeply.

Mentions McInnis’ work but does not effectively integrate it into the reflection.

Does not reference McInnis’ book or the connection is unclear.

Personal Voice & Insight

Essay presents a unique, compelling perspective, demonstrating deep personal engagement with the material.

Personal perspective is evident and thoughtful but may not be fully developed.

Some personal insight is present, but it may feel generalized or underdeveloped .

Lacks personal engagement or presents a generic response.

Clarity & Organization

Well-organized essay with clear structure, logical flow, and effective transitions. Writing is polished and articulate.

Organization is clear, with a logical progression of ideas. Some minor structural issues.

Writing is understandable but lacks clarity or coherence in places. Needs better organization.

Disorganized or unclear. Writing lacks coherence and makes it difficult to follow ideas.

Grammar & Mechanics

Virtually no grammar, spelling, or punctuation errors. Writing is polished and professional.

Few minor errors that do not affect readability.

Noticeable grammar or punctuation errors that somewhat distract from the content.

Frequent errors that interfere with clarity and readability.

Total Score: ____/100

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