Articles on: Rubrics

Can I create my own Simple rubric from scratch?

This video walks through the steps of building a custom rubric from scratch, showing how to define criteria, assign scores, and save the rubric for immediate use or future editing. It’s a quick, practical guide for educators looking to create clear, personalized assessments. A detailed summary outlining the key points is provided below the video.



Creating a custom rubric can be a straightforward and effective way to align assessment with learning objectives. While templates and AI tools are available, a manual approach offers greater control and adaptability for educators.


Foundational Setup


  • Grade Level & Context

Selecting the appropriate grade level (e.g., high school), intensity (e.g., normal), and language (e.g., U.S. English) ensures that the rubric matches the needs of the classroom.


  • Naming & Organization

Assigning a clear title—such as _Grade 9 English_—helps keep rubrics organized and easily identifiable.


Defining Assessment Criteria


  • Key Categories

A strong rubric includes clearly defined categories that reflect the skills and outcomes being evaluated. In this example, the criteria are:

  • Focus and Claim
  • Organization
  • Evidence
  • Clarity


  • Scoring Framework

Each criterion is scored out of four, promoting consistent, balanced assessment across submissions.


Reviewing and Finalizing


  • Preview Before Publishing

Previewing the rubric allows for final adjustments and helps ensure the structure is clear and aligned with expectations.


  • Library Integration

Once finalized, rubrics are stored in a centralized library, making them easy to access and reuse for future assignments.


Flexibility and Immediate Use


  • Instant Application

Rubrics can be used right away for grading or revisited for editing.


  • Iterative Improvement

The ability to revise existing rubrics supports a responsive, feedback-informed approach to teaching and assessment.


Key Takeaways


  • Clarity and Consistency

Rubrics communicate expectations clearly to students and support objective grading.


  • Customization for Context

Settings like grade level and language ensure relevance to specific educational environments.


  • Instructional Support

A good rubric serves not just as a grading tool but as a guide for student learning and teacher reflection.


  • Educator Empowerment

With the right tools and structure, educators can create rubrics that are both practical and pedagogically sound.

Updated on: 02/05/2025

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