Analytic rubrics resembles a grid where specific criteria for learning or competencies gained are being assessed. The horizontal top column represent the levels of achievement, while the vertical column includes the criteria. 

The following steps illustrate the process for developing an analytical rubric: 

1. Decide the set of skills

Decide and determine the specific set of skills, attitudes and abilities that students should demonstrate to show a level of progress in their learning journey. These skills represent the various criteria need to be checked for the students progress, and each of them is identified by a phrase. Each criterion should be measurable through the work of students. 

Below you can find an example of a set of literacy skills and what they should describe. 

Content and ideas: The quality and relevance of the topic and content of work. 

Organization: Sequencing of content and ideas. 

Language Conventions: Correctness of structure, such as grammar and spelling issues.

2. Determine the levels of performance

The levels of achievements can numerical categories, descriptive or descriptions accompanied with an associated number. Depending on the chosen number of columns is decided the scale of the rubric. The most used types have a scale from 1 to 4 through 6. The descriptive levels of performance can be seen as adjectives describing the performance level and they determine the degree of performance which has been met. The descriptions should help students understand the objective assessment and what they are expected to do. 

Examples to descriptive levels of performance
  • Beggining, Developing, Proficient, Accomplished, Exemplary
  • Emerging (1), Developing (2), Proficient (3) 
  • Poor, Minimal, Sufficient, Above Average, Excellent
  • Needs improvement, Satisfactory, Good, Accomplished 
Calculating the levels of performance

To calculate the final grade in a scale to 10, add all the grades and double the grade for the presentation, then divide the outcome by 10, round up or down to full or half. 

3. Create the descriptions for the criteria

The descriptions are valuable fir helping to increase the reliability of assessment. It is recommended to begin by writing a short descriptions, like a sentence or two, for the highest level of ability of one criteria. Based on that, you can use similar sentences, only changing specific words/concepts for the remaining levels of performance. 

Following are examples of words/concepts that can be conveyed in the several levels of performance: 

  • Limited to strong or high
  • Presence to absence
  • Major to minor
  • Consistent to inconsistent
  • Struggle to effectively
  • Frequent errors to no errors
Example from the previous chapter 
Skill 1-Beginning 2-Developing 3-Proficient 4-Accomplished 5-Exemplary
Content and Ideas Ideas are unclear or irrelevant; lacks a central theme. Some ideas are relevant; the main theme is present but not fully developed. Ideas are clear and relevant; the main theme is adequately developed. Ideas are insightful and well-developed; effectively engages the reader. Ideas are original and profound; offers unique perspectives and deep insights.
Organization Writing is disorganized; lacks clear structure or flow. Some organizational structure; transitions are weak or confusing. Clear organization with logical flow; transitions connect ideas effectively. Well-organized; clear structure enhances understanding and engagement. Exceptionally organized; sophisticated structure that enhances clarity and impact.
Language Conventions Frequent errors in grammar, punctuation, and spelling; difficult to understand. Several errors that distract from meaning but some parts are understandable. Minor errors in grammar, punctuation, and spelling; overall clarity is maintained Few errors; demonstrates strong command of language conventions.

Virtually no errors, shows exceptional command of language and style, enhancing the writing's effectiveness. 

Assessment grid tools & Resources that can help your design

Spreadsheets: For spreadsheets enthusiasts, these tools give you great flexibility in designing your grids. 

iRubric: A platform that can help your organization develop a culture of outcomes-based assessments and manage data. 

AI chats: AI chats can help you create a rubric, but you need first to give specific instructions on the type of rubrics, the specific skills that you want to assess, the type of scale evaluation, and finally the levels of scales. 

ChallengeMe: A platform that offers you an intuitive interface for creating, managing and evaluating peer-based activities. 

Last modified: Tuesday, 5 November 2024, 11:18 AM