Review the rubric set out for the research paper assignment, if there is one available. Reviewing the outline set out for the writer of the research paper will ensure that you will be grading the paper with the established guidelines in mind. If there is no set rubric, obtain a general rubric which highlights important elements for research papers. Using a rubric will guide you in looking for clarity in arguing, analysis and organization.
Read through the research paper once to get a feel for the entire product. Use a pencil to make light markings on any areas which you have questions about. You should look for a strong thesis statement, clarity in the topic sentences of each paragraph, clear organization which supports the thesis, and proficient use of sources. The sources should be outlined and then problematized, rather than a simple restatement of the original author's arguments. Primary sources should also be cited correctly and used in a convincing manner.
Read through the paper a second time and mark down any awkward word choices, unclear sentences, and incorrect grammar. Be sure to note down how clear the organization and arguments are the second time reading the paper.
Refer to the grading rubric from Step 1 and decide if the research paper meets the criteria. For example, ask yourself if there was a clear thesis statement and introduction, which gave you an idea of the topic and convinced you to read the rest. If there was, the person receives an A on that aspect of the paper. Go through each element of the grading rubric marking down what grade the paper would receive on each element, including the use of language and grammar.
Give a final overall grade. Using the grades from the individual parts of the grading rubric as a guide, think about the overall impression the research paper gave you. Did the argument convince you? Was the organization useful? Was the use of sources compelling and original? If they were, then the paper should receive an A. If the paper did not convince you and was a reiteration of others' arguments, the paper will probably receive a B or C. If the writer used no clear grammar, no organization, and had no strong thesis statement, which was upheld throughout the research, the paper could be in danger of receiving a D.
Mark down the grade with your final comments at the very end of the paper or on a separate grading rubric, if available. Make sure to clearly express what the paper was lacking or was insightful about so the recipient can improve on his or her writing and organizational skills.