CATEGORY	5	4	3	2
Knows the Poem	The performer knows the poem well and has obviously practiced reciting the poem several times. There is no need for notes and the performer speaks with confidence.	The performer knows the poem pretty well and has evidently practiced reciting the poem once or twice. Refers to notes once or twice, but the performer is relatively confident.	The performer knows some of the poem, but does not appear to have practiced. Refers to notes 3-4 times, and the performer appears ill-at-ease.	The performer could not say the poem without using a written copy.
Speaks Clearly	Speaks clearly and distinctly all the time, and mispronounces no words.	Speaks clearly and distinctly all the time, but mispronounces one word.	Speaks clearly and distinctly most of the time. Mispronounces  more than one word.	Often mumbles or cannot be understood OR mispronounces more than one word.
Posture and Eye Contact	Uses posture appropriate for the poem, looks relaxed and confident. Establishes eye contact with all members of the audience during the presentation.	Uses posture appropriate for the poem and establishes eye contact with members of the audience during the presentation.	Sometimes stands up straight and establishes eye contact.	Slouches and/or does not look at or try to involve audience during presentation.
Volume/Voice	Volume is loud enough to be heard by all audience members throughout the presentation. Performer speaks clearly and paces performance. Is easily understood by all audience members all the time.	Volume is usually loud enough to be heard by all audience members. Performer generally speaks clearly and paces performance. Is easily understood by audience members most of the time.	Volume is usually loud enough to be heard by all audience members. Performer speaks so fast that audience has trouble understanding.	Volume too soft or performer mumbles. Audience often has trouble understanding.
Acting/Dialogue	Performer uses consistent voice inflection, facial expressions, and movement to make the poem more believable, more entertaining, and more easily understood.	Performer often uses voice inflection, facial expressions, and movement to make the poem more believable, more entertaining, and more easily understood.	Performer tries to use voice inflection, facial expressions, and movement to make the poem more believable, more entertaining, and more easily understood.	Performer recites the poem, but does not use voice inflection, facial expressions, or movement to make the poem more believable, interesting, or clear.

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