* Rubrics are designed to assess positive qualities. They focus on what a student *does* well, not what they *don't* do.
* "Not" implies a lack of something. It's more constructive to focus on specific areas for improvement (e.g., "Needs more supporting evidence" instead of "Not enough evidence").
* Clarity and focus are key. Rubrics should be easy to understand and apply. Using "not" can lead to ambiguity and confusion.
Instead of "Not," consider categories like:
* Content: This covers the substance of the essay, including information, arguments, and analysis.
* Organization: This looks at the structure, flow, and coherence of the essay.
* Style: This assesses the clarity, conciseness, and language choices.
* Mechanics: This focuses on grammar, punctuation, and spelling.
Remember: The specific categories in a rubric can vary depending on the type of essay, grade level, and learning objectives.