TUESDAY TEACHING TIP: Meet the Single Point Rubric

Looking for a way to streamline grading while giving students clearer, more meaningful feedback? Try using a single point rubric! Unlike traditional rubrics that list multiple levels of performance across several categories, a single point rubric defines the standard for success in the center column—and leaves space on either side for specific comments on areas where students exceed or fall short. This focused approach can make a big difference in your teaching and your students’ learning.

This week, we challenge you to create and use a single point rubric in one of your classes.

Here’s one way to do it 

• Choose one assignment: Pick an upcoming short assignment and create a simple single point rubric for it. Focus on 3–5 key criteria that define success.
• Use a template: Save time by using a ready-made template. Just plug in your assignment's learning goals in the middle column (the “meets expectations” part) and leave space on the sides for comments. See below for template tips.
• Involve students: Share the rubric before students begin the assignment. Spend a few minutes in class reviewing it together so they know exactly what’s expected—and what great work looks like.
• Focus feedback: When grading, only write comments where students either exceed or don’t yet meet the standard. No need to score every level—just highlight strengths and growth areas.
• Pilot it formatively: Try it on a low-stakes or ungraded assignment first to get comfortable. It’s a great way to practice giving specific, actionable feedback without adding grading pressure.

Resources for creating a single point rubric

• Cult of pedagogy: Jennifer Gonzalez’s blog offers great free templates and an easy-to-follow explanation.
• Google Docs and Slides: Search “single point rubric template” in Google Docs or Slides—you’ll find lots of free, customizable versions you can copy and tweak for your own class.
• Learning Management Systems (LMS): Camino allows you to create rubrics for grading. You can customize a traditional rubric into a single point format by adjusting the settings.
• AI Tools (like ChatGPT!): You can also quickly generate a custom single point rubric by describing your assignment and learning goals. Just ask for a 3–5 criteria rubric and start from there.

DID YOU DO IT?

Let us know how it went. We would love to hear your feedback about how you implemented today’s Tuesday Teaching Tip in your classroom. Click here to fill out our 3-question survey. The survey is anonymous, but if you choose to enter your name, you’ll be entered in a drawing at the end of the quarter to win a new book from Faculty Development!

 

UPCOMING EVENTS 

On-Campus Writing Retreats: 

Thursday October 9 

Friday October 17

CAFEs and Workshops: 

AI & Academic Integrity CAFE on Thursday October 16 

Social Justice Teaching CAFE on Tuesday October 21 

Social Justice Teaching Workshop on Tuesday October 21 

 

WANT TO READ A LITTLE MORE?

• Read more about how to use different types of rubrics on our Digital Resources for Teaching page on Rubrics.
• Cult of Pedagogy by Jennifer Gonzalez.

This week’s Tuesday Teaching Tip was prepared by Sumana Sur, Diana Morling, Loring Pfeiffer, and Patti Simone on behalf of Faculty Development.

Missed a teaching tip? Read them all here.

And check out our full calendar of CAFEs and other Faculty Development and Faculty Collaborative events.