Rubric Maker
Start from a free rubric template (writing, presentation, project, lab report or peer review) or a blank grid. Set your criteria and levels, write the descriptors, then print a clear grading rubric, download Word or copy it into Google Docs.
Works in your browser and saves on this device. Nothing you type is sent anywhere. Don't enter students' personal details.
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What is a rubric?
A rubric is a scoring guide: a short list of criteria (what you are looking for) and a description of what each level of quality looks like for every criterion. Students see what success looks like before they start, and you grade more quickly and consistently.
How to make a rubric in five steps
- Pick three to six criteria that match the learning goal, not things that are easy to count. "Uses evidence to support the argument" matters more than "has five paragraphs".
- Choose the number of levels. Four levels work well for most tasks because there is no middle option to fall back on. Three levels are quicker for younger students.
- Write the top level first, describing excellent work, then the level just meeting the goal, then the levels below.
- Use the same features at every level and change only the quality, so students can see exactly what improves.
- Share it before the task and use it for self-assessment or peer feedback before the final grade.
Analytic and holistic rubrics
This rubric maker builds analytic rubrics: each criterion gets its own score, which gives detailed feedback. A holistic rubric gives one overall score from a single description per level. For a quick holistic rubric, use one criterion called "Overall quality".
Peer review rubric
Choose Peer review in "Start from" for a rubric students use to rate how a group member worked: contribution, listening and respect, reliability and feedback. Ask students to add one specific comment for each score and keep peer scores private. For peer feedback on a piece of work rather than on teamwork, start from the writing or presentation rubric and let students use it on a partner's draft.
Tips for clear descriptors
- Describe what you can see in the work ("uses a quotation to support each point"), not vague words such as "good" or "excellent".
- Keep each descriptor to one or two short sentences, so the printed rubric fits on one landscape page.
- Write in student-friendly language for younger grades, or add an "I can" version. The I can statements tool helps.
- Pair the rubric with success criteria so students know what to aim for during the lesson.
Frequently asked questions
How do I make a rubric?
Choose a starter or a blank rubric, name your criteria, set the number of levels and their points, and write what each level looks like for each criterion. The preview updates as you type; then print it, download Word or copy it as a table.
How many levels should a rubric have?
Most teachers use three to five. Four is a common choice because there is no middle level to default to. Use fewer levels for younger students and quick tasks.
What is a peer review rubric?
A rubric students use to give feedback to each other, either on a classmate's work or on how each person contributed to a group task. Choose Peer review in "Start from" for a teamwork version.
Can I put the rubric into Google Docs or Sheets?
Yes. Press Copy as table and paste it into Google Docs or Sheets; it keeps the rows and columns. You can also download a Word file and open it in Google Docs.
Is my rubric saved?
Yes, in this browser on this device. It stays there until you change it or clear your browser data.