Which assessment tool is mainly used for grading based on specific criteria?

• A. Standardized Assessment
• B. Rubric Assessment
• C. Formative Assessment
• D. Norm Referenced Assessment

Answer: (B)

Rubric assessments are primary tools for grading that focus on specific criteria. They provide a clear framework for both teachers and students to understand what is expected for achieving different levels of performance. Each criterion is defined, often with descriptors that articulate the quality of work expected at various achievement levels. This structure not only helps in objective grading but also provides valuable feedback to students about their strengths and areas for improvement.

Rubrics can be particularly beneficial in physical education, where specific skills or components of performance can be assessed. For example, if evaluating a gymnastics routine, a rubric can outline criteria such as body form, execution of skills, and artistic expression, assigning points or levels of achievement based on how well the student meets these established standards.

In contrast, other assessment types serve different purposes. Standardized assessments are designed to measure student performance against a uniform set of criteria across a wide population, while formative assessments focus on evaluating student learning during the instructional process to guide teaching and provide feedback, without primary emphasis on grading. Norm-referenced assessments compare a student's performance against a larger group, often presenting a percentile ranking rather than specific achievement criteria. Thus, the rubric assessment stands out for its targeted criteria-based grading system.