On Your Markwith Grading RubricsBarbara A. Frey, D.Ed.bafrey@pitt.edu

AgendaRubric definition and examplesAdvantages of using a rubricComponents of a rubricAdopt, adapt or create a rubric

What is a Grading Rubric?A scoring guide to evaluate the quality of student performance within a range of criteria.

Types of RubricsHolistic – assess process or product as a whole (page 1)Analytical – assess components of a product or processCriteria only – checklist (pages 9 & 10)

Advantages of Grading RubricsClarifies and communicates measurable criteria Increases objectivityProvides effective feedback to studentsHelps students self-assess their performanceIncreases inter-rater reliability

What is the purpose of the assignment?

What is the purpose of the assignment or activity?Are your objectives aligned with the measurable outcomes of the activity?What knowledge, skills, and attitudes is the activity designed to assess?What evidence do you need to evaluate the knowledge, skills, and attitudes?

Holistic Grading RubricScoring strategy – words, numbers or letter gradesQuality definitions and descriptionsProvides a single score based on an overall impression

Analytical RubricLevel Descriptions

Evaluative CriteriaConsider your goals for the assignmentIdentify clear attributes to be assessed (i.e., content, organization, delivery, style)Identify measurable and distinguishable criteria

Quality DescriptionsEstablish characteristics for levels of proficiencyReview student examples to determine degrees of proficiencyConsider comments you give repeatedly in student feedbackUse a consistent style in the description of each level changing only key evaluative words

Quality Descriptions:What’s the difference?“A” Performance“C” Performance

Scoring StrategiesDetermine how criteria will be weightedConsider whether to use evaluative words, assign points or percentages

Selecting a RubricAdoptAdaptCreate your own

SummaryConsider your goals and objectives for the assignmentDetermine whether you’re assessing a product or processConsider your assignment expectations and feedback commentsRecognize that a rubric is a work in progress