Loyalist or Patriot? Debate the Causes of the American Revolution

A 20-point Claim–Evidence–Reasoning rubric for your arguments about whether British policies justified independence. Only your contributions are graded—not the AI historical figure’s responses.

1. Position and Claim

• 4 points: Clearly defends or challenges independence with a focused claim about British policies.
• 3 points: Takes a clear position and connects it to a British policy.
• 2 points: Takes a position, but the claim is broad or loosely tied to policy.
• 1 point: Position is unclear or only states a preference.

2. Historical Evidence

• 4 points: Accurately uses at least two specific sources or events; addresses British policies and colonial reactions.
• 3 points: Accurately uses two specific sources or events, with limited detail about their context.
• 2 points: Uses one specific, accurate source or event.
• 1 point: Offers only vague examples or mostly inaccurate details.

3. Reasoning About Causes

• 4 points: Explains how evidence supports the claim and weighs colonial rights against Britain’s authority.
• 3 points: Explains how evidence supports the claim and acknowledges the competing view.
• 2 points: Gives some explanation, but mostly summarizes events.
• 1 point: Lists facts or opinions without explaining their connection to the claim.

4. Counterargument and Reply

• 4 points: Anticipates a plausible opposing argument and directly answers a point the AI figure makes with evidence or reasoning.
• 3 points: Addresses an opposing argument and answers a point the AI figure makes.
• 2 points: Mentions the other side but gives a limited or indirect reply.
• 1 point: Repeats the original claim instead of addressing an opposing point.

5. Debate Communication

• 4 points: Presents an organized opening and clear, respectful replies that build on the exchange.
• 3 points: Presents an understandable opening and respectful, mostly clear replies.
• 2 points: Participates respectfully, but ideas are difficult to follow or replies are brief.
• 1 point: Contributes little to the exchange or communicates unclearly.

How to Calculate Your Final Score

Choose one point level for each of the five criteria, then add the points for a score out of 20. Give 0 points for any criterion with no relevant student work. An empty submission, an off-topic submission, or a submission with no student argument earns 0 out of 20. Do not award or subtract points for what the AI figure says.