The A essay presents a strong central idea (directly related to the assigned topic) that controls the movement of the essay through a        clear, organized  discussion.  The writer develops major points logically and supports these points with concrete, specific evidence or details that hold the reader’s interest.  The essay exhibits the writer’s ability to make effective transitions from idea to idea; to select appropriate words and phrases; to write sophisticated sentences; and to maintain a consistent, appropriate tone.  The writer expresses ideas freshly and vividly, and the essay is essentially free of mechanical or grammatical errors.