Rubric for a 200-Level Course (McGowen, UR)

This rubric, written by Dr. Ernest McGowen and based on the Sample and Fetrow rubrics, has been implemented in his “Introduction to American Government” course. This rubric is used to assess weekly discussion-starter posts and the resulting comments.

If you would like to use this rubric, please contact your CTLT Liaison; we can help you import this rubric into your site and customize it for your own needs.

Rubric

Score = 5
Post poses a question or a new idea that coherently integrates examples with evidence, data, and critical analysis; writer demonstrates awareness of limitations or implications of the posed standard of evaluation, question, or idea. The post reflects in-depth engagement and understanding of creation of new knowledge on the subject.

Score = 4
Post asks a question or presents an interesting standard of evaluation and assess it with appropriate evidence or data; post demonstrates critical thinking skills, identification of underlying assumptions, and evidence evaluation. The post reflects good engagement with the subject.

Score = 3
Post is reasonably focused; with a somewhat clear standard of evaluation that is well described however, may not be particularly groundbreaking or innovative; evidence or data presented may not fit the standard well or relies heavily on secondary analysis (like editorials); no alternative answers or explanations are considered. The post reflects moderate engagement with the topic.

Score = 2
The post lacks a clear standard of evaluation, features poor analysis, evidence is descriptive or based on personal experience rather than evaluative; few connections are made between ideas. The post reflects passing engagement with the topic.

Score = 1
Post is unfocused, or simply rehashes previous comments, and displays little evidence of engagement with the topic.