What is a Rubric?
A rubric is a grading guide that lists specific criteria and performance standards for assessment. It provides clear expectations for students and consistent evaluation methods for instructors, reducing grade disputes and improving learning outcomes.
The Challenge
Faculty frequently face student questions about grades on written assignments, oral presentations, and projects. While instructors usually know what they're looking for, students often challenge grades they receive due to unclear expectations.
When to Use Rubrics
Rubrics are appropriate assessment methods when learning outcomes involve:
- Synthesizing information
- Learning new techniques or methods
- Analyzing problems
- Writing papers
- Giving oral presentations
4-Step Development Process
Revisit & Determine
Revisit Assignment Learning Outcomes:
- What should students know or be able to do?
Determine Assessment Areas:
- What key areas will you "grade"?
- Focus on essential components
Establish Standards
Define Performance Levels:
- Start with highest and lowest performance
- Add middle-range performance levels
- Avoid comparative language ("less thorough")
- Use unique descriptors for each level
Develop Scoring
Create Consistent Scale:
- Decide on number of score levels
- Base on performance standards from Step 2
- Clearly define differences between levels
- Ensure consistency across all components
- Consider weighted rubrics if needed
Adjust & Refine
Continuous Improvement:
- Evaluate after each use
- Adjust key components as needed
- Refine performance standards
- Modify scoring scale if necessary
- Involve students in development process
Best Practices & Tips
Avoid Comparative Language
Don't define levels as "thorough" vs "less thorough." Use specific, unique descriptors for each performance level.
Maintain Consistency
A score of 4 in one area should be comparable to a score of 4 in another area across all rubric components.
Student Involvement
Include students in all stages of rubric development to promote engagement and buy-in to the assessment process.
Regular Evaluation
After each use, assess whether the rubric needs adjustments in components, standards, or scoring scales.
Sample Rubric Structure
| Criteria | Excellent (4) | Good (3) | Satisfactory (2) | Needs Improvement (1) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Content Knowledge | Demonstrates comprehensive understanding with original insights | Shows solid understanding with some analysis | Basic understanding with limited analysis | Minimal understanding with little evidence |
| Organization | Clear structure with smooth transitions and logical flow | Well-organized with adequate transitions | Generally organized with some unclear sections | Poor organization, difficult to follow |
| Communication | Engaging delivery with excellent clarity and confidence | Clear delivery with good audience engagement | Adequate delivery with some clarity issues | Unclear delivery, difficult to understand |