Near the beginning of every project, I go through the process of asking students to think about what makes outstanding work. There are lots of reasons for this: it helps give them something to aim for, it helps them consider how they might best use their time, it helps them understand what makes quality work, and, well, it helps me write a rubric, which is pretty much the second work task any teacher has to do. In this case, it was writing a rubric for English, math, and science content based on an upcoming deliverable: a brochure presenting the case for compost along three axes: mathematically, environmentally, and convenience. In other words, how do we convince people to compost based on arguments in those areas?

The kids were crazy – Monday + two hours doing bureaucracy – but still managed to generate a pretty awesome rubric. More evidence that we’re making progress.

English
If someone reading it wants to make compost.
Explains the science behind it all clearly.
Makes it so everyone can comprehend it and makes it appealing to the reader.
If the ideas about argument made about compost are clear and compelling.
Effective, persuasive, and real structure.

Math
The math terms are understandable and equations make sense.
Carefully explains how things can get composted with math; everything adds up and makes sense; they can use the math in their design.
If the measurements of each component are thoughtfully explained along with various ratios.
If the math is backed up in words to make it easier to understand.
There are visuals to help explain the math.
Easily understandable concepts that focus on the way you explain things in your work.
If the numbers presented are chosen carefully, explained well, and the equation is demonstrated in a convincing way.

Social Studies
If you have evidence to make your case.
IF the evidence is synthesized from multiple sources, shows a deep understanding, and clearly helps the argument.
If you have lots of evidence to back up your work.