Using Rubrics for Grading Subjective Work
Assessing Student Work in a Consistent and Efficient Manner
Jan 21, 2009
Rubrics are an essential tool for grading outside of the traditional multiple choice, fill-in-the-blank assessments. Rubrics allow for consistent grading for subjective work. They establish parameters for assignments that will look different student to student and therefore allow for fairness in grading across the board.
How Rubrics are Used
Using rubrics as a regular part of assessmentis a wise practice to have in place. They allow for effective communication of assignment expectations to student as well as parent. Rubrics break down an otherwise ambiguous assignment into manageable parts. Additionally, teachers have the option of tailoring the grading to allow some portions of the assignment to have a greater weight than others.
Rubrics give students a consistent point of reference as they work through their assignment due to the clearly outlined expectations. Rubrics are often used for writing pieces but can also be used for interactive notebooks, math and science projects as well as response journals in all subjects.
Creating a Rubric
Rubrics can be as simple or complex as you would like. Rubrics can be a short bulleted list of expectations, each of which is assigned its own point value based on importance. The more complex version usually includes a table with several key expectations explained in detail showing the student what it takes to earn the maximum points. The more detailed version allows for explanation of loss of points through this table as well.
There are several useful texts available that give additional insight into the rubric creation process. Solving the Assessment Puzzle: Piece by Piece by Carolyn Coil & Dodie Merritt is a comprehensive resource for the rubric beginner. This particular text explains the value of the rubric, steps for creating the rubric and provides multiple examples and templates that can be reproduced for use within the classroom.
The Importance of Rubrics
Rubrics are an important element that should be added to regular classroom assessment. They provide consistency and fairness in grading and allow for effective communication between all involved. By using Rubrics, you as the teacher create a more simplified grading process for subjective work which is an essential practice for the already overworked teacher.
Additionally, by using this anecdotal tool, misunderstandings in expectations are prevented and effective communication with parents as to their child's progress with standards is achieved. It is vital to have a grading plan in place that will foster communication, ensure educational success all while simplifying the responsibility of the teacher
As the classroom teacher, learning how to use rubrics as well as create them will simplify your grading process.You will find that the rubric will become an important part of your assessment process because it provides a more comprehensive look at your student's progress with the required standards of learning. Overall, a rubric is an essential tool that will provide you as well as the students with detailed, reliable feedback to ensure continuous success.
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