TED

Talk Rubric: Writing and Delivery of Speech

Written Speech

Excellent (5)

Proficient (4)

Developing (3)

Beginning (2)

Absent (1)

Viewpoint: Student takes a

clear and unique position and
issues an evidence-based call to
action.

Evidence: Student uses

compelling evidence to support
his/her position and cites at
least 4 reliable sources.
Analysis & Persuasion: Student
convincingly argues position by
providing relevant background
info, using valid examples/
warrants, acknowledging &
developing counter-claimsall
in a clear & organized way.
Language: Student maintains a
strong & engaging voice
through story and appeals to
ethos, pathos, logos. Student
uses compelling language
including sensory details &
strong verbs.
Format: Student follows proper
MLA formatting with heading,
in-text citations, and quote
incorporation. Speech is
approximately 800 words and
maintains correct grammar,
spelling, and punctuation.

TOTAL _______/25 (writing)







Works Cited Page
Bibliographies are in alphabetical order
Bibliographies connect to in-text citations



TOTAL _______/10 (writing)

Correct MLA heading

Correct formatting of bibliographies


Delivery of Speech
Poise: Student communicates confidence
through body language by standing tall with
shoulders back. Student avoids fidgeting,
hands in pockets, and crossed arms.
Voice: Student engages the audience through
effective vocal techniques of pauses,
emphasis, speed, and volume.

Excellent (4)

Proficient (3)

Developing (2)

Beginning (1)

Life: Student expresses enthusiasm, passion,

and authenticity through tone and gestures.
Eye Contact: Student makes consistent eyecontact with the audience, rarely looking at
notes or slides.
Gestures: Student uses hand gestures and
body language to engage the audience,
enhance understanding, and emphasize key
points.

TOTAL _______/20 (speaking & listening)




Visuals
Relevance: Student uses visuals strategically
throughout speech to engage audience,
enhance understanding, & emphasize points.
Simplicity: Slides contain one high quality
image and/or minimal text.
Focus: Slides contain a clear focal point;
distracting, non-essential elements are
eliminated.
Color: Student chooses colors deliberately,
focusing on clarity and emotion.
Structure: Text and visuals work together to
reinforce key points, focus, and simplicity.

TOTAL _______/10 (speaking & listening)

Excellent (2)

Proficient (1.5)

Developing (1)

Beginning (.5)

OVERALL TOTAL _______/65