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Application: Investigation and integration of evidence, contexts, and assumptions. Does not distinguish between fact, opinion, and value judgments; does not question evidence. Evidence that leads to a claim in the work is only vaguely apparent; assumptions (personal, those in the work, and others’) are touched upon, and there is the beginning of some examination of additional perspectives. Evidence that leads to a claim in the work is investigated, and some distinction is made between appropriate and inappropriate evidence; assumptions (personal, those in the work, and others’) are integrated as are additional perspectives. Evidence that leads to a claim in the work is thoroughly investigated, and appropriate and inappropriate evidence is insightfully distinguished; assumptions (personal, those in the work, and others’) are carefully identified through a thorough examination of contexts and additional perspectives. Synthesis and Analysis: Connection of arguments, contexts, perspectives, etc., and formulation of a position. Does not identify and summarize, or accurately represent the problem(s); no argument or hypothesis is apparent. The main problem(s) and complexities are beginning to emerge. An argument, position, or hypothesis is attempted but the relationship to the problem(s), etc. is not clear. The main problem(s) and of the work and the relationship between perspectives and contexts are apparent. An argument, position, or hypothesis is made that an understanding of the arguments, etc. The main problem(s) and complexities of the work are carefully and clearly identified, and the relationship between perspectives and contexts are acknowledged and conveyed. A reasonable, clear, position or hypothesis is expressed demonstrating some complexity of thought.