The best classroom assessments are also instructional tools. Rubrics are only one form of assessment, but the best rubrics can be used as teaching tools that support student learning and critical thinking. Rubrics are easy to use and explain at the same time making teacher expectations very clear. Students can use them as they work on their projects to gage how they are doing. Rubrics enhance the student's ability to succeed.
Rubrics are usually used for projects, essays or long assignments. They give students valuable feedback and details of how the final project will be evaluated. All rubrics have two features: 1. a list of criteria, and 2. graduations of quality from poor to high .
The links below will not only help you with rubrics, but will also add to your assessment toolbox.
http://www.aea13.org/PROGRAMS_SERVICES/CurriculumAssessment/AssessmentResources/rubrics.htm
