Rubric development
I created the preliminary outline by listing the learning outcomes that were to be emphasized in the project. The outcomes were then divided into suitable categories, and sample products were displayed and discussed.
I proceeded to introduce the idea of the rubric to the students, who then generated many ideas for the rubric criteria. Students were asked to think about what parts of the design, construction, budget, and building journal were the most significant to the overall bridge quality. Together, the class came up with four different rubrics.
The budget rubric is provided as an example:
| Budget Criteria | 4 | 3 Good | 2 Fair | 1 Unacceptable |
| Legibility | Completely legible. | The budget shows two or three marks or stains, but is legible. | The budget is barely legible, with numerous marks or stains. | The budget is messy and illegible. |
| Supplies & Materials | Completely accounted for. | Five-sixths of the materials and labor are accounted for. | Two-thirds of the materials and labor are accounted for. | Materials and labor are not accounted for. |
| Ledger Activity | All daily activities are recorded. | Five-sixths of the daily balance of funds is indicated. | Two-thirds of the daily balance of funds is indicated. | The daily balance of funds is nonexistent. |
| Ledger Balance | Balance is completely accurate. | The daily balance has two or three inaccuracies. | The daily fund record has more than three inaccuracies. | The daily fund balance is inaccurate. |
Summary
The experience students gain through an authentic project enables them to understand the various aspects necessary for creating a valuable piece of work. Knowledge that has deep meaning provides the basis for students to judge objectively their own work as well as that of others. Developing a rubric is a reflective process that extends the experience and the knowledge gained beyond simply turning in a project for a teacher-initiated grade.
Articles
Rubrics: An Overview
Rubrics Part One: The Advantages of Rubrics
Rubrics Part Two: Create an Original Rubric
Rubrics Part Three: Analystic vs. Holistic Rubrics
Rubrics Part Four: How to Weight Rubrics
