Evaluating Texts Using Criteria
Introduction
Evaluating texts requires using a set of criteria to ensure objectivity and fairness. Subjectivity,
based on personal feelings, can be mitigated by adhering to established standards. Criteria are
the standards or principles used to judge a work, output, or performance.
Common Indicators for Evaluating Texts
The most common indicators in evaluating a text include:
Content
Cohesion
Grammar
Mechanics
Word Choice
Tone
Content
Content refers to the ideas, concepts, focus, or details of the subject matter discussed in the
text. A good evaluation of content considers the depth, relevance, and accuracy of the
information presented.
Cohesion
Cohesion refers to the connection and organization of words, phrases, ideas, and concepts
within the text. It ensures that the writing "sticks together," making it easier for the reader to
follow the main ideas.
To improve cohesion:
Ensure sentences within a paragraph are closely related.
Use transition words to signal a shift to a new topic.
Group related ideas into paragraphs.
Grammar
Grammar deals with the fluency and accuracy of language structure. Evaluating grammar
involves assessing:
Parts of speech
Sentence patterns
Linguistic style
Sentence structure
Transitional words
Spelling
Mechanics
Mechanics refers to the accuracy of:
Punctuation
Capitalization
Proper nouns
Word Choice
Word choice deals with the appropriateness of words, especially in terms of:
Depth
Level of formality
Tone
Tone refers to the emotion or feelings expressed by the text. It can be:
Joyful
Serious
Humorous
Sad
Threatening
Formal
Informal
Pessimistic
Optimistic
