Write an expository essay in which you discuss how allegoresis and midrash differ as interpretive approaches to Scripture. Choose one question/answer from Philo of Alexandria and one or two midrashim, and discuss what each text tells us about the passage(s) in the Torah that it interprets, about allegoresis and midrash as interpretive methods, and about what the authorsΒ interpretations tell us about their sexual politics. 2 pages maximum.RubricWriting RubricWriting RubricCriteriaRatingsPtsThis criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeThesis10 ptsThe thesis and discussion are clear, sophisticated, and well organized.8 ptsThe thesis is clear and sophisticated. The discussion is slightly unclear or lacking in sophistication or organization.7 ptsThe thesis is unclear, bland, and/or obvious. Not supported by evidence or examples.6 ptsThe thesis is vague or too broad. You just restate obvious points or give misinformation.10 ptsThis criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeStructure20 ptsYour thesis is supported by a number of relevant examples, each of which is clearly presented in the body of the essay and elaborated with good transitions between ideas. Your conclusion is appropriate.18 ptsGenerally clear but some of the ideas may need more elaboration. Most transitions are good. Some ideas may lack a clear introduction. The conclusion is appropriate.16 ptsTransitions between ideas are unclear, or you may wander from topic to topic. Some ideas are not well integrated into the essay. The conclusion is unsupported by the essay.12 ptsThe structure is unclear. Few topic sentences and the transitions between ideas are hard to follow. Conclusion is inappropriate or missing.20 ptsThis criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeCompleteness15 ptsYou answer the question or address the problem you pose, including all relevant information.12 ptsYou include most of the information required but you have left out some (minor) aspects of your subject.10 ptsYou do not address a major part of the question or topic.8 p
tsYou do not address the topic, or you veer into another topic.15 ptsThis criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeUse of Evidence25 ptsAppropriately chosen examples or other evidence are used to illustrate your argument. Citations are well chosen, fully integrated into the essay, and properly cited.22 ptsGood use of examples or other evidence to support your ideas. However, at times, you cite examples or evidence without really explaining their relevance. Overall, you use examples or evidence well. Citations are fairly well chosen, generally well integrated in the essay, and properly cited.18 ptsExamples and evidence used are not appropriate to the question or relevant examples/evidence are missing. You often use examples and evidence without explaining their relevance. Citations are not well chosen, well integrated, or properly cited.16 ptsEvidence and examples are vague, wrong, wrongly interpreted, or simply missing. Citations are not integrated into the argument.25 ptsThis criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeTerms/Vocabulary15 ptsExcellent use of relevant terminology or specialized vocabulary. Demonstrates understanding of these terms.12 ptsGenerally good use of relevant terminology or specialized vocabulary. Sometimes terms are misapplied.10 ptsAvoids relevant terminology or specialized vocabulary when they should be used or occasionally misuses terms.8 ptsShows no attempt to use or understand relevant terminology or specialized vocabulary.15 ptsThis criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeGrammar/Style15 ptsNo problems of either grammar or spelling. Your style is sophisticated and appropriate. The essay is a pleasure to read.12 ptsGenerally no problems in either grammar or spelling. Occasional minor difficulties in style. The essay is readable and well organized.10 ptsSome minor problems with grammar, but lots of spelling/punctuation lapses.8 ptsPaper shows little or no evidence of proofreading. Major and frequent errors in spelling and grammar. Difficult to read.15 ptsTotal Points: 100