What is a Rubric?
Rubric Definition –
Rubric is a set of clearly stated criteria by which a piece of work will be evaluated.
It sets forth a clear description of levels of performance, from EXCELLENT down to some version of “unacceptable”.
Rubric is a tool for giving students clear feedback on work.
Rubric is a tool for helping you evaluate work efficiently and in a meaningful way.
Seven-step method to creating and using a scoring Rubric for writing assignments:
- Have students look at models of good versus “not-so-good” work. A teacher could provide sample assignments of variable quality for students to review.
- List the criteria to be used in the scoring rubric and allow for discussion of what counts as quality work. Asking for student feedback during the creation of the list also allows the teacher to assess the students’ overall writing experiences.
- Articulate gradations of quality. Using a conservative number of gradations keeps the scoring rubric user-friendly while allowing for fluctuations that exist within the average range (“Creating Rubrics”).
- Practice on models. Students can test the scoring rubrics on sample assignments provided by the instructor.
- Ask for self and peer-assessment.
- Revise the work on the basis of that feedback. As students are working on their assignment, they can be stopped occasionally to do a self-assessment and then give and receive evaluations from their peers. Revisions should be based on the feedback they receive.
- Use teacher assessment, which means using the same scoring rubric the students used to assess their work.