Skip to Main Content
UCQ

Effective Feedback Strategies

Use Rubrics

Clarity

If grammar and sentence structure are part of the grade, rubrics should set out clear expectations of levels, and explicit instruction should be provided to enable students to attain this level.

For example, at the high range of the rubric, “varied sentence structure” could be a criterion while at the lower range, the presence of “sentence fragments” could be noted.

Verbal clarification of expectations with students is always appreciated and often necessary.

Use your rubric to set clear boundaries between grammar and content: 10% of the mark should warrant 10% of the comments.

If most comments on a paper concern grammar, students will focus on perfect sentences, which they may copy-paste rather than focusing on the content and their understanding and expression of that content.