Sophomore Seminar Course and Assessment Framework …X(1)A(Xq7eGW9F1... · 2020-03-28 · Sophomore...
Transcript of Sophomore Seminar Course and Assessment Framework …X(1)A(Xq7eGW9F1... · 2020-03-28 · Sophomore...
Wallenpaupack Area High School
Mr. Greenberger, Instructor
Sophomore Seminar – Distance Learning Activity #1
Sophomore Seminar is a class that has provided us an opportunity to explore and investigate various
aspects of starting a business. Now that the fundamentals of the business are intact, we’ll need to
maintain the business through marketing, management, and more. Using the Assessment Framework
below, continue to pursue each part of the project as discussed in class. If you are having any trouble
with any part of the activities, reach out and I’ll help you as best I can to understand it, master it, and
use it in a realistic way. Feel free to share your work with me as you have been doing all along.
My email address: [email protected]
Sophomore Seminar Course and Assessment Framework
Wallenpaupack Area School District
Purpose of Course: Sophomore Seminar is a required 0.5 credit course for all 10th grade students. This course is designed to engage students in an extensive problem-solving experience. Whether it be service oriented, entrepreneurial, or scientific, the problem to solve is chosen by the student. This course includes technological applications, career development, and an Internet safety and security discussion.
You have an opportunity to choose among 5 different project topics, each with similar requirements and desired outcomes. You will work independently and at times will be required to work collaboratively with your peers to solve problems related to your chosen project.
The 5 project topics are related to entrepreneurship, business/product development, community service and the arts. This course will require students to utilize real world skills to create a finished product.
Assessment: There are 6 overarching categories and 16 sub-categories, each sub-category has an
associated rubric.
Category 1: Organization
Sub-category #1: Project Proposal
Sub-category #2: Project Calendar
Category 2: Communication
Sub-category #3: Project Web Site
Sub-category #4, 4a: Commercial/Podcast
Sub-category #5: Post Card/Poster/Flier
Sub-category #6: Logo
Sub-category #7: Mailing List/Merge
Sub-category #8: Letterhead
Sub-category #9: Press Release
Sub-category #10: Newspaper Ad
Sub-category #11, Business Card
Category 3: Budget
Subcategory #12, Budget
Category 4: Personnel
Sub-category #13, Job Description
Category 5: Progress Monitoring and Reflection
Sub-category # 14: Reflection Journal
Sub-category #15: Resume
Category 6: Final Presentation
Sub-category #16: Final Presentation
Kickoff Lesson: Dream Big!
Big Idea:
In Sophomore Seminar you have been asked to create something from nothing. What an incredible opportunity! This kickoff lesson is intended to provide a forum for you and your peers to dream big together. What do you love to do? What is your passion?
Sophomore Seminar is designed to allow you to develop a project that speaks to this passion, whatever it may be. Work in small groups (no larger than three) and develop responses to the series of questions below. We want you to work together; however, each student will come up with her or his own unique responses to these questions. And the answers will all depend on your own unique PASSION.
Student Name:
Influence Area:
1. Name the project area (of the five categories provided) that best fits your project’s vision. Explain why you think that this area is best’ provide a minimum of three reasons.
Community or Global Partners and Contributors:
1. You’ll need others to be involved in your project for a variety of reasons. You may need outside expertise or you may need financial support. There are limitless reasons why you’ll need outside partners/contributors. List at least three potential partners and explain, for each, why you think their involvement is important.
Planning and Implementation:
1. How/why did you choose to do this project? Explain how this project reflects your passion.
2. What significant need(s) or issue(s) do you seek to address? How will your project make the world a better place?
3. What made the idea for this project compelling/inspiring? Why should we be interested in this project?
Preparation:
1. What do you think you need to do to get ready? Make a list of at least six things that you will need to do to get ready to launch your project. Explain why each thing you chose is important.
2. What learning do you think will be involved? Name at least three things you’ll need to know more about and explain why for each.
Action:
1. Name and explain in detail your first three action steps.
Categories:
1. Organizing Your Project: Project Proposal and Calendar
Sub-category #1: Project Proposal: The thought of writing a proposal can be overwhelming. But
you can do it! Proposals are written when people need to ask permission to make a purchase,
do a project, or write a paper. The proposal is a formal way of putting forth an idea and asking
for action to be taken on that idea.
Consider the following ideas for your proposal, REFER to your scoring rubric for a complete
listing of everything that MUST be present in your proposal. Below are some highlights:
1. A statement of purpose. Do this clearly and concisely so that the reader knows immediately
why you are writing. Consider your target audience, who are they and how will this influence
your proposal?
2. Give some background information about why you are proposing your suggestion so that the
reader has a clear understanding of the problem.
3. State a solution to the problem. This is where you give specifics about your suggestion.
4. State what costs are involved.
5. Conclude by restating the problem and proposed solution. Be sure to thank your reader as
well.
Sub-category #2: Project Calendar: This is a big project, so you are going to have to develop a
way to keep yourself and everything else on track! To do this, you will create a project Calendar
using Microsoft EXCEL
Consider the following ideas for your calendar, REFER to your scoring rubric for a complete
listing of everything that MUST be present in your calendar. Below are some highlights:
1. An appropriate calendar format to include, day, week, month, and year with any Federal
Holidays included.
2. An appropriate number of updates per week. When looking at your calendar as a whole, the
reader should be able to see the entire “history” of your project, from proposal to final
presentation and everything in between.
2. Communication: Getting the Word Out about Your Brilliant Idea!
Sub-category #3: Web Site Design: Websites are a necessity when it comes to communicating
to any audience. So, one of your jobs will be to design a website that showcases your project in
the most positive way possible. Your website must be attractive, consistent, highly organized,
and professional in appearance and functionality.
Consider the following ideas for your web site, REFER to your scoring rubric for a complete
listing of everything that MUST be present in your web site. Below are some highlights:
1. Your site must be visually appealing. Choose appropriate fonts and colors. You must have a
consistent theme. Consider relating the theme from your web site to all of your other
communication materials to bring it all together as your “BRAND”.
2. Your site must clearly communicate to your audience. Think about your audience and then
think about what it means to communicate your vision to them in a clear and concise way.
Sub-category #4: Advertising- Audio Broadcast/Podcast: This part of the project will give you
the opportunity for your audience to hear your voice…LITERALLY. In addition to radio, this add
could also be suitable for other media that utilize audio for advertising (YouTube, Podcasts,
Social Media sites, etc…)
Consider the following ideas for your audio broadcast, REFER to your scoring rubric for a
complete listing of everything that MUST be present in your audio broadcast. Below are some
highlights:
1. Digital recording allows you to do as many “takes” as you like. Take advantage of this
technology to perfect your broadcast!
2. Make sure your message is clear and concise. Reflect and consider what information must
absolutely be present and be sure that you include it.
3. Editing is critical. Make sure that your editing process results in a smooth and professional
sounding product.
Sub-category #4a: Commercial on Phone or Tablet: Use your phone or tablet and an
appropriate application (Example: iMovie) to create a video commercial advertisement for your
project.
1. Digital recording allows you to do as many “takes” as you like. Take advantage of this
technology to perfect your broadcast!
2. Make sure your message is clear and concise. Reflect and consider what information must
absolutely be present and be sure that you include it.
3. Editing is critical. Make sure that your editing process results in a smooth and professional
sounding product.
Sub-category #5: Post Card/Poster/Flier: Develop a post card, poster, or flier. Again, consider
your audience, but this time in a broader context. Like a website, people can choose to read
your post card/poster/flier or not. What will make them want to read yours?
Consider the following ideas for your post card/flier/poster, REFER to your scoring rubric for a
complete listing of everything that MUST be present in your post card/flier/poster. Below are
some highlights:
1. What does it mean to make a flier, poster, or post card attractive? You may want to look at
some samples of these and think about what made you want to or not want to read these
samples.
2. Your space is limited on post cards, posters, and fliers. So, how will you choose the most
important information based on your intention and your audience?
Sub-category #6: Logo: Your logo, whatever it is, is EVERYWHERE and on EVERYTHING! Have fun
designing your very best logo. It should be clean, clear, and simple. When people see it, they
should think of you immediately.
Consider the following ideas for your logo, REFER to your scoring rubric for a complete listing of
everything that MUST be present in your logo. Below are some highlights:
1. How does the artistry and design of your logo communicate your message?
2. How do you manage to place your logo in as many places as possible and how do you design
your logo to make sure that you can easily place it onto or into all of your communication
materials?
Sub-category #7: Mailing List/Merge: This spreadsheet reflects your audience and it must
include the key members of the community whom you wish to target. It also allows you to mass
print mailing labels for envelopes, mass email, etc… Use the available technology to save
yourself some time!
Consider the following ideas for your mailing list/merge, REFER to your scoring rubric for a
complete listing of everything that MUST be present in your mailing list/merge. Below are some
highlights:
1. Consider more than the minimum of three columns. What other information can you gather
and how could you use this information to move your dream forward?
2. Research the members of your local community. Which members of your community should
be included on your mailing list and why? Ask yourself: Who is my target audience and, among
this audience, who are the most important people to be included?
Sub-category #8: Letterhead: Your letterhead should be used for every piece of correspondence
that comes from your office. Considering this, it must be professional in appearance and it
should include as much information as possible about your organization without being cluttered
in appearance.
Consider the following ideas for your letterhead, REFER to your scoring rubric for a complete
listing of everything that MUST be present in your letterhead. Below are some highlights:
1. One thing that must be ABSOLUTELY PERFECT is your letterhead. Make sure also, that all of
the necessary contact information is included. Is your logo present? If so, in what form?
Sub-category #9: Press Release: This document has a specific format and you want to be sure to
include all of the relevant information in an accurate way. Writing the release is one thing,
getting the press to pay attention to it is another! So, ask yourself: How do I get the press to
pick up my press release? What sets my press release apart from all of the others?
Consider the following ideas for your press release, REFER to your scoring rubric for a complete
listing of everything that MUST be present in your press release. Below are some highlights:
1. Press releases have a unique format that makes it easy for news organizations to identify who
you are and what you want them to communicate. Incorrect formatting is a sure way to get
your press release ignored.
2. Ask yourself: What does it mean to write a “catchy” lead?
Sub-category #10: Newspaper Advertisement: Newspapers are still an effective way to get the
word out to your community about your organization. Design a newspaper ad the combines the
use of text and graphics to craft an effective message about your organization.
Consider the following ideas for your newspaper advertisement, REFER to your scoring rubric for
a complete listing of everything that MUST be present in your newspaper advertisement. Below
are some highlights:
1. It may be a good idea to consider the role that graphics play (along with text) in your
advertisement.
2. Consider the size of your advertisement and where, within the paper, you’ll want it placed.
Remember, the bigger it is, the more expensive. Location also plays a role in the costs of the
advertisement.
Sub-category #11: Business Card: Walk into just about any business in our town and you’ll see
the business cards for all kinds of other local businesses on display. What will set your business
card apart from the others?
Consider the following ideas for your business card, REFER to your scoring rubric for a complete
listing of everything that MUST be present in your business card. Below are some highlights:
1. Consider these questions: What will set your business card apart from all of the other
business cards? What role will your logo play on your business card?
2. Where will you want to be sure to display your business card? Why?
3. Budget: Everything Comes with a Price!
Sub-category #12: Line Item Budget: Everything costs money; it’s a sometimes unfortunate
reality. Your budget needs to reflect the costs of everything. EVERYTHING! So, every item in
every sub category should have a budget category. Use Microsoft EXCEL to calculate your line
item budget totals. There are many online references that will help you understand how to build
and organize a budget. Use them wisely.
Consider the following ideas for your budget, REFER to your scoring rubric for a complete listing
of everything that MUST be present in your budget. Below are some highlights:
1. Research not only how to assemble and organize a budget, but also how to find the best deal
on the things you need.
2. Microsoft EXCEL is a powerful program that can help save you time when it comes to
maintaining the status of your budget. Use EXCEL formulas to help you with these calculations.
4. Personnel: Finding the Best People to Help You Realize Your Vision!
Sub-category #13: Personnel-Job Description: How are you going to get all of this work
complete? You’ll likely need some help. So, think about what kind of help you’ll need, who you
will get to do it, and how much will it cost to pay them?
Consider the following ideas for your job description, REFER to your scoring rubric for a
complete listing of everything that MUST be present in your job description. Below are some
highlights:
1. The job description has to be very clear, outlining and detailing both the work requirements
and the skills necessary to carry out the work.
2. Are there physical requirements for prospective applicants? Are there educational
requirements for prospective applicants? Do prospective applicants need to have prior
experience? Think about these things and be clear when you define them.
5. Progress Monitoring and Reflection: Continually Reflecting with an Eye on Improvement
Sub-category #14: Reflection Journal: As you go along on this journey, you will encounter great
success and also some difficulty. Writing about this journey will provide you with an opportunity
to re-think through both your successes and problems. Through this process, you’ll find that
solutions to the problems will come more easily because of this reflection.
Consider the following ideas for your reflection journal, REFER to your scoring rubric for a
complete listing of everything that MUST be present in your reflection journal. Below are some
highlights:
1. Reflection through writing is a powerful tool for personal and professional growth. The
process of writing forces your mind to process events in a deeper and more comprehensive way
and the cognitive demand associated with this process helps us learn.
Sub-category #15: Resume: As you navigate this entire process, you are going to gain
experience and skills in many areas. We want you to document these newly found skills and
experiences in a resume. You must add to this resume during the course of the semester and
then have a final resume complete by the end of the course.
Consider the following ideas for your resume, REFER to your scoring rubric for a complete listing
of everything that MUST be present in your resume. Below are some highlights:
1. Microsoft WORD has a very good resume generator, Consider using it.
2. Research different resume formats from various online sources. Choose a format that suits
your work and personality.
6. Final Presentation: Bringing Everything Together!
Sub-category #16: Final Presentation: The purpose of this presentation is to bring all of your
work together into one place and to showcase your brilliance! Who knows, maybe it will lead to
some funding that would allow your vision to become reality.
Consider the following ideas for your final presentation, REFER to your scoring rubric for a
complete listing of everything that MUST be present in your final presentation. Below are some
highlights:
1. Everything you did should be included, but in a concise and succinct way.
2. Much more important than your document, is your ability to talk about the document to an
interested audience. Research how to use presentation software appropriately in order to
ensure that your message gets to your audience in the best way.
Course Assessment Procedures
1. The course is Pass (P) or Fail (F).
2. Subcategories 1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 12, 14, 15, 16 are all required do be completed by each person taking
the course. They must be done at a level that achieves a minimum of “proficient” on each of
their respective rubrics. If any of these components is not completed at the level of “proficient”,
the result is a failure (“F”) for the course. If you achieve anything other than a minimum of
proficient on any of these assignments, you may resubmit them at any time for revaluation.
3. You may choose to complete any four of the following subcategory choices: 4 or 4a, 9 or 13, 5 or
10, 8 or 11. They must be done at a level that achieves a minimum of “proficient” on each of
their respective rubrics. If any of these components is not completed at the level of “proficient”,
the result is a failure (“F”) for the course. If you achieve anything other than a minimum of
proficient on any of these assignments, you may resubmit them at any time for revaluation.
Sub-category #1: Proposal Rubric
CATEGORY DISTINGUISHED PROFICIENT NEEDS
IMPROVEMENT 1
NEEDS
IMPROVEMENT 2
Organization Information is very
well organized with
well-constructed
paragraphs and
subheadings.
Information is
organized with
well-constructed
paragraphs.
Information is
organized, but
paragraphs are not
well-constructed.
The information
appears to be
disorganized.
Content &
Information
Purpose (8)
Background
Info. (8)
Solution (8)
Costs (8)
Restate Problem
(8)
Students have
included all of the
required
information and
content, and have
gone beyond to
include additional
text and/or
information that
contribute to the
overall quality of
the document.
Students have included most of the required information and content with some omissions. OR The students did not include additional text or information to enhance the quality of the
document.
Students have included some of the required information and content combined with some omissions
Several required
areas of
information have
been omitted.
Mechanics No grammatical,
spelling or
punctuation errors.
Almost no
grammatical,
spelling or
punctuation
errors. (1-2
errors.)
A few grammatical
spelling, or punctuation errors. (3-4 errors.)
Many
grammatical,
spelling, or
punctuation errors.
(5 or more errors.)
Professionalism The final outcome
of the document
looks "fit
publication”—very
professional.
The final outcome
of the document
looks good, but
the document
could use some
minor
improvements.
The final outcome
of the document
could benefit from
some minor
improvements.
The document
looks
unprofessional
and needs major
revisions and
improvements.
Following
Directions/Use
of Time and
Materials
Always on task,
always followed
directions—self-
starter.
Usually on task,
followed
directions, needed
some guidance
and external
motivation to start.
Constantly off task
and needed
considerable
guidance/motivating
to start/finish.
Always off task.
Did not follow
directions, did not
ask for any help
and final product is
a result of a lack of
motivation.
Comments:
Category: Organizing
Sub-category #6: Logo Rubric
CATEGORY DISTINGUISHED PROFICIENT NEEDS
IMPROVEMENT 1
NEEDS
IMPROVEMENT 2
Organization Information is very
well organized and
conveyed through
the art/design
chosen for the logo.
Information is
slightly organized
and conveyed
through the
art/design chosen
for the logo.
Information is
somewhat
conveyed through
the art/design
chosen for the logo,
but confusing.
The information
appears to be
disorganized and
very confusing.
Logo Design and
Graphics
Logo is accurately
produced using
computer software
(or drawn by hand
and scanned into
the computer).
Attention is paid to
detail and level of
difficulty is high.
Logo is produced
using computer
software (or drawn
by hand and
scanned into the
computer). Some
detail is shown
and level of
difficulty is
medium.
Logo is partially
produced using
computer software
(or drawn by hand
and scanned into
the computer). Very
little detail is shown
and level of
difficulty is low.
Logo artwork does
not display skill or
effort with multiple
mistakes or stray
marks, or logo is
obviously copied
from an already
existing logo
Business/Project
Representation
Logo perfectly
represents the
business.
Logo fairly
represents the
business.
Logo somewhat
represents the
business.
Logo does not
represent the
business.
Professionalism The final outcome
of the logo looks
professionally
constructed and
ready for the
publisher.
The final outcome
of the logo looks
good, but it could
use some minor
improvements.
The logo has few
well-constructed
elements and would
not be suitable for a
company to use
The document
looks
unprofessional
and needs major
revisions and
improvements.
Following
Directions/Use
of Time and
Materials
Always on task,
always followed
directions—self-
starter.
Usually on task,
followed
directions, needed
some guidance
and external
motivation to start.
Constantly off task
and needed
considerable
guidance/motivating
to start/finish.
Always off task.
Did not follow
directions, did not
ask for any help
and final product is
a result of a lack of
motivation.
Comments:
Sub-category #13: Job Descriptions Rubric
CATEGORY DISTINGUISHED PROFICIENT NEEDS
IMPROVEMENT 1
NEEDS
IMPROVEMENT
2
Organization Information is very
well organized with
well-constructed
paragraphs
containing pertinent
information.
Information is
organized with
well-constructed
paragraphs,
information which
is displayed is
mostly pertinent.
Information is
organized, but
paragraphs are not
well-constructed.
Information included
does not truly related
to the topic at hand.
Information appears
to be scattered and
disorganized.
Quality of
Information
Information clearly
relates to job. It
includes several
supporting details
and/or examples.
Information clearly
relates to the job.
It provides 1-2
supporting details
and/or examples.
Information clearly
relates to the job. No
details and/or
examples are given.
Information has little
or nothing to do with
the job.
Format Uses consistent
business-like tone.
Always oriented to
prospective job
holder audience.
Divided into
sections with clear
topics.
Mostly business-
like tone and
consistent
audience. Divided
into sections;
most sections
have a clear
topic.
Occasional
undertones of
business language
can be detected. Not
written from the
proper point of view.
Audience seems
unclear to author, at
times. Not divided into
sections or topic of
each section unclear.
At times has too
informal a tone. No
intended audience
can be detected.
Vague
statements/sentence
structure throughout.
Grammar/
Mechanics
The item does not
contain any
grammatical nor
mechanical
mistakes.
The item contains
one to two
grammatical or
mechanical
mistakes.
The item contains
three to four
grammatical or
mechanical mistakes.
The item contains
five or more
grammatical or
mechanical
mistakes.
Following
Directions/Use of
Time and
Materials
Always on task,
always followed
directions—self-
starter.
Usually on task,
followed
directions, needed
some guidance
and external
motivation to start.
Constantly off task
and needed
considerable
guidance/motivating to
start/finish.
Always off task. Did
not follow directions,
did not ask for any
help and final
product is a result of
a lack of motivation.
Comments: Category: Personnel
Sub-category #10: Newspaper Ad Rubric
CATEGORY DISTINGUISHED PROFICIENT NEEDS
IMPROVEMENT
1
NEEDS
IMPROVEMENT
2
Organization Very organized and
message is
presented in a clear
and concise manner.
Fairly well organized
with unclear message...
some areas difficult to
understand, locate or
read.
Poorly organized
with no stated
message
Not formatted and
no clear message.
Design
Features
Student has
demonstrated a
mastery of desktop
publishing features
and has used
advanced features.
Student shows a
moderate
understanding of
desktop publishing.
Overall design could be
enhanced.
Student shows
limited
understanding of
desktop publishing
principles
Student did not
display a clear
knowledge of
desktop publishing
features or
document has
obvious page setup
errors.
Content -
Accuracy
All required
information is
included.
Most of the required
information is included.
Several required
areas of information
have been omitted.
Required
information is not
present
Graphics/
Pictures
Graphics go well
with the text and
there is a good mix
of text and graphics.
Graphics go well with
the text, but there are
so many that they
distract from the text.
Graphics do not go
with the
accompanying text
or appear to be
randomly chosen.
Graphics are not
present
Spelling &
Proofreading
No spelling errors. No more than 1 spelling
error.
No more than 3
spelling errors.
Multiple spelling
and grammar
errors.
Writing -
Mechanics
Capitalization and
punctuation are
correct throughout.
There are 1-2
capitalization and/or
punctuation errors.
There are several
capitalization or
punctuation errors,
Multiple errors that
significantly
diminish the quality
of the work.
Following
Directions/Use
of Time and
Materials
Always on task,
always followed
directions—self-
starter.
Usually on task,
followed directions,
needed some guidance
and external motivation
to start.
Constantly off task
and needed
considerable
guidance/motivating
to start/finish.
Always off task. Did
not follow
directions, did not
ask for any help
and final product is
a result of a lack of
motivation.
Comments:
Category: Communication
Sub-category #5: Post Card/Poster/Flier Rubric
CATEGORY DISTINGUISHED PROFICIENT NEEDS
IMPROVEMENT 1
NEEDS
IMPROVEMENT
2
Organization Information is very
well-organized,
and a clear
message/theme is
conveyed through
the design
chosen.
Information is
slightly organized
and conveyed
through the
design chosen.
Information is
somewhat
conveyed through
the art/design
chosen for the logo,
but confusing.
The information
appears to be
disorganized and
very confusing.
Design
Features
Student
demonstrates a
thorough
understanding of
their target
audience and
features reflect
this knowledge.
Student
demonstrates an
understanding to
whom they are
targeting, and
certain features
reflect this
knowledge.
Student
demonstrates a
basic
understanding to
whom they are
targeting, and a few
features reflect this
knowledge.
Student did not
display a clear
knowledge of who
their target
market was,
therefore no
features take this
into
consideration.
Content -
Accuracy
All required
information is
included.
Most of the
required
information is
included.
Some of the
required information
is included.
Several required
areas of
information have
been omitted.
Graphics/
Pictures
Graphics go well
with the text and
there is a good
mix of text and
graphics.
Graphics go well
with the text, but
there are so many
that they distract
from the text.
Graphics do not go
with the
accompanying text
and/or appear to be
randomly chosen.
Graphics are
haphazardly
placed/chosen
and do not
compliment
font/font choices.
Grammar/
Mechanics
The item does not
contain any
grammatical nor
mechanical
mistakes.
The item contains
one to two
grammatical or
mechanical
mistakes.
The item contains
three to four
grammatical or
mechanical
mistakes.
The item contains
five or more
grammatical or
mechanical
mistakes.
Following
Directions/Use
of Time and
Materials
Always on task,
always followed
directions—self-
starter.
Usually on task,
followed
directions,
needed some
guidance and
external
motivation to
start.
Constantly off task
and needed
considerable
guidance/motivating
to start/finish.
Always off task.
Did not follow
directions, did not
ask for any help
and final product
is a result of a
lack of motivation.
Comments: Category: Communication
Sub-category #4: Advertising - Radio Broadcast
CATEGORY DISTINGUISHED PROFICIENT NEEDS
IMPROVEMENT 1
NEEDS
IMPROVEMENT 2
Format There is a clear
introduction, middle
and ending with a
defined message
and call to action.
Introduction and/or
ending are
included, and
message is clear.
No call to action
Introduction and/or
ending are not
included, and
message is unclear.
Not included.
Speaks Clearly Speaks clearly and
distinctly all the time
and mispronounces
no words; volume is
appropriate.
Speaks clearly, but
voice tends to drop
off; volume is
slightly inaudible
Does not speak
clearly and is
difficult to
understand; volume
adds to the
misunderstanding.
Does not present
Time-Limit Ad is between 30
and 45 seconds in
length.
Ad is slightly over
the time frame
Ad is well over the
allotted time frame
Ad is considerably
over or under time
frame
Focus Commercial is relevant, easy to understand and effective.
Provides some
information about
product, but
message is unclear
Commercial is too
short or not enough
information is given
about product.
Commercial doesn't
come to the point of
the ad--audience
confused.
Music Clips Music was edited
appropriately.
Music clips need
minor editing.
Music clips need
major editing.
No music clips
included
Broadcast Editing Entire ad is edited
well.
Minor editing is
needed--for
example, too much
silence between
clips.
Major editing is still
needed. Ad is not
smooth.
No editing was
performed
Authenticity Ad has the sound of
a "real" professional
advertisement.
Ad is pretty good.
One or 2 parts do
not fit with the
theme.
Ad is minimally
effective with many
flaws
Ad does not sound
real--
unprofessional.
Following
Directions/Use of
Time and Materials
Always on task,
always followed
directions—self-
starter.
Usually on task,
followed directions,
needed some
guidance and
external motivation
to start.
Constantly off task
and needed
considerable
guidance/motivating
to start/finish.
Always off task. Did
not follow directions,
did not ask for any
help and final
product is a result of
a lack of motivation.
Comments:
Category: Communication
Sub-category #11: Business Card Rubric
CATEGORY DISTINGUISHED PROFICIENT NEEDS
IMPROVEMENT
1
NEEDS
IMPROVEMENT 2
Organization Information is very
well organized and
presented in a clear
and concise
manner. All
necessary contact
information is
represented
Information is
organized and
presented in a
concise manner.
Most necessary
contact
information is
represented
Information is
presented, but not
concisely. Most
contact information
is missing.
Information is not
well organized. Contact will not occur
from information
found on the card.
Graphics/
Pictures The business card
is exceptionally
attractive in terms
of design, layout
and neatness
The business
card is attractive
in terms of
design, layout
and neatness
The business card
is acceptably
attractive but a bit
messy in places
The business card is
messy or very poorly
designed.
Mechanics/
Grammar There are no
grammatical or
mechanical
mistakes on the
business card
There are one or
two grammatical
or mechanical
mistakes on the
business card
There are three or
four grammatical or
mechanical
mistakes on the
business card
There are more than
five grammatical or
mechanical mistakes
on the business card,
and these mistakes
take away from the
meaning Professionalism The outcome of the
document looks "fit for print".
The outcome
looks very good,
but the
document could
use some minor
improvements.
The outcome looks
good, but the
document could
use some major
improvements
The document looks
unprofessional and
needs major
revisions and
improvements, for it
to be actually used. Following
Directions/Use of
Time and
Materials
Always on task, always followed directions—self-starter.
Usually on task,
followed
directions,
needed some
guidance and
external
motivation to
start.
Constantly off task
and needed
considerable
guidance/motivating
to start/finish.
Always off task. Did
not follow directions,
did not ask for any
help and final
product is a result of
a lack of motivation.
Comments:
Category: Communication
Sub-category #8: Letterhead Rubric
CATEGORY DISTINGUISHED PROFICIENT NEEDS
IMPROVEMENT
1
NEEDS
IMPROVEMENT 2
Organization Information is very
well organized and
presented in a
clear and concise
manner. All
necessary contact
information is
represented
Information is
organized and
presented in a
concise manner.
Most necessary
contact information
is represented
Information is
presented,
but not
concisely.
Most contact
information is
missing.
Information is not well
organized. Contact
will not occur from
information found on
the letterhead.
Design Features Student has
demonstrated a
mastery of
desktop publishing
features and has
used advanced
features.
Student shows a
moderate
understanding of
desktop publishing.
Overall design
could be
enhanced.
Student
shows a
slight
understandin
g of desktop
publishing.
Overall
design needs
to be
enhanced.
Student did not
display a clear
knowledge of desktop
publishing features or
document has
obvious page setup
errors.
Content -
Accuracy
All required
information is
included.
Most of the
required
information is
included.
Some of the
required
information is
included.
Several required
areas of information
have been omitted.
Graphics/
Pictures
Graphics go well
with the text and
there is a good
mix of text and
graphics.
Graphics go well
with the text, but
there are so many
that they distract
from the text.
Some of the
graphics go
with the text.
Graphics do not go
with the
accompanying text or
appear to be
randomly chosen.
Spelling &
Proofreading
No spelling errors. No more than 1
spelling error.
No more than
2 spelling
errors.
Several spelling
errors.
Following
Directions/Use of
Time and
Materials
Always on task, always followed directions—self-starter.
Usually on task,
followed directions,
needed some
guidance and
external motivation
to start.
Constantly off
task and
needed
considerable
guidance/moti
vating to
start/finish.
Always off task. Did
not follow directions,
did not ask for any
help and final product
is a result of a lack of
motivation.
Comments:
Category: Communication
Miscellaneous Document Rubric CATEGORY DISTINGUISHED PROFICIENT NEEDS
IMPROVEMENT
1
NEEDS
IMPROVEMENT
2
Organization Information is very
well organized and
presented in a clear
and concise
manner. All
necessary
information is
represented
Information is
organized and
presented in a
concise manner.
Most necessary
information is
represented
Information is
presented, but not
concisely. Most
information is
missing.
Information is not
well organized.
Little time or
thought
dedicated to
planning is
evident.
Design
Features
Student has
demonstrated a
mastery of desktop
publishing features
and has used
advanced features.
Student shows a
moderate
understanding of
desktop
publishing. Overall
design could be
enhanced.
Student shows a
slight
understanding of
desktop
publishing.
Overall design
needs to be
enhanced
Student did not
display a clear
knowledge of
desktop
publishing
features or
document has
obvious page
setup errors.
Content -
Accuracy
All required
information is
included.
Most of the
required
information is
included.
Some of the
required
information is
included.
Several required
areas of
information have
been omitted.
Graphics/
Pictures
Graphics go well
with the text and
there is a good mix
of text and
graphics.
Graphics go well
with the text, but
there are so many
that they distract
from the text.
Some of the
graphics go with
the text.
Graphics do not
go with the
accompanying
text or appear to
be randomly
chosen.
Spelling &
Proofreading
No spelling errors. No more than 1
spelling error.
No more than 2
spelling errors.
Several spelling
errors.
Following
Directions/Use
of Time and
Materials
Always on task, always followed directions—self-starter.
Usually on task,
followed
directions, needed
some guidance
and external
motivation to start.
Constantly off
task and needed
considerable
guidance/motivati
ng to start/finish.
Always off task.
Did not follow
directions, did
not ask for any
help and final
product is a
result of a lack of
motivation.
Comments:
Sub-category #3: Web Site Design Rubric
CATEGORY DISTINGUISHED PROFICIENT NEEDS
IMPROVEMENT 1
NEEDS
IMPROVEMENT 2
Background Background is
exceptionally attractive,
consistent across pages,
adds to the theme or
purpose of the site, and
does not detract from
readability.
Background is
attractive, consistent
across pages, adds to
the theme or purpose
of the site, and does
not detract from
readability.
Background is
consistent across
pages and does not
detract from
readability.
Background detracts
from the readability of
the site.
Color Choices Color choices form a
pleasing palette, do not
detract from the content,
and are consistent across
pages.
Color choices do not
detract from the
content and are
consistent across
pages.
Color choices detract
from the content.
Color choices make the
content hard to read or
otherwise distract the
reader.
Fonts Excellent choices of fonts
and font sizes
The fonts are
consistent, easy to
read and point size
varies appropriately for
headings and text.
The fonts are
consistent and point
size varies
appropriately for
headings and text.
Font sizes and/or styles
are difficult to read and
detract from the site.
Graphics Graphics are related to the theme/purpose of the site, are thoughtfully cropped, are of high quality and enhance reader interest or understanding.
Graphics are related
to the theme/purpose
of the site, are of good
quality and enhance
reader interest or
understanding.
Graphics are related
to the theme/purpose
of the site and are of
good quality.
Graphics seem
randomly chosen, are
of low quality, OR
distract the reader.
Spelling &
Grammar
There are no errors in
spelling, punctuation or
grammar.
There are 1-3 errors in
spelling, punctuation
or grammar.
There are 4-5 errors
in spelling,
punctuation or
grammar.
There are more than 5
errors in spelling,
punctuation or
grammar.
Content The site has a well-stated clear purpose and theme that is carried out
throughout the site.
The site has a clearly
stated purpose and
theme but may have
one or two elements
that do not seem to be
related to it.
The purpose and
theme of the site is
somewhat muddy or
vague.
The site lacks a
purpose and theme.
Layout The website has an
exceptionally attractive
and usable layout.
The web pages have
an attractive and
usable layout.
The web pages have
a usable layout but
may appear busy or
boring. It is easy to
locate most of the
important elements.
The web pages are
cluttered looking or
confusing. It is often
difficult to locate
important elements.
Following
Directions/Use
of Time and
Materials
Always on task, always
followed directions—
self-starter.
Usually on task,
followed directions,
needed some
guidance and
external motivation
to start.
Constantly off task
and needed
considerable
guidance/motivating
to start/finish.
Always off task. Did
not follow directions,
did not ask for any
help and final
product is a result of
a lack of motivation.
Comments:
Sub-category #16: Final Presentation CATEGORY DISTINGUISHED PROFICIENT NEEDS
IMPROVEMENT 1
NEEDS
IMPROVEMENT
2
Organization Information is
very well
organized and
presented in a
clear and concise
manner. All
necessary
information is
represented
Information is
organized and
presented in a
concise manner.
Most necessary
information is
represented
Information is
presented, but not
concisely. Most
information is
missing.
Information is not
well organized.
Little time or
thought dedicated
to planning is
evident.
Enthusiasm Facial
expressions and
body language
generate a strong
interest and
enthusiasm about
the topic in
others.
Facial
expressions and
body language
sometimes
generate a strong
interest and
enthusiasm about
the topic in
others.
Facial expressions
and body language
are used to try to
generate
enthusiasm but
seems does not
seem genuine.
Very little use of facial expressions or body language. Did not generate much interest in topic
being presented.
Comprehension Student can
accurately answer
almost all
questions posed
by classmates
about the topic.
Student can
accurately
answer most
questions posed
by classmates
about the topic.
Student can
accurately answer
a few questions
posed by
classmates about
the topic.
Student is unable
to accurately
answer questions
posed by
classmates about
the topic.
Preparedness Student is
completely
prepared and has
obviously
rehearsed.
Student seems
prepared but
might have
needed a couple
more rehearsals.
The student is somewhat prepared, but rehearsal was
lacking.
Student does not
seem at all
prepared to
present.
Speaks Clearly Speaks clearly
and distinctly all
the time and
mispronounces
no words.
Speaks clearly and distinctly all the time but mispronounces one word.
Speaks clearly and
distinctly most of
the time.
Mispronounces no
more than one
word.
Often mumbles or
cannot be
understood OR
mispronounces
more than one
word.
Content Shows a full
understanding of
the topic.
Shows a good
understanding of
the topic.
Shows a good
understanding of
parts of the topic.
Does not seem to
understand the
topic very well.
Format/Effects Professional
looking
Presentation was
primarily
professional.
Presentation was
somewhat
professional.
Presentation was
not professional.
Comments:
Sub-category #12: Budget Rubric CATEGORY DISTINGUISHED PROFICIENT NEEDS
IMPROVEMENT 1 NEEDS
IMPROVEMENT 2
Organization
Document is completely legible and well organized with clear headings.
Document is completely legible and well organized, but headings do not stand out. OR Line items are not well organized.
Document is legible but messy. It lacks organization and is missing headings. Line items may be categorized in the wrong places. Document does not appear to be a final copy.
Document is messy and illegible. There are no headings. Document is obviously a working copy.
Content
Contains costs of all expenses. All items that appear in the plan appear in the budget.
Contains costs of most expenses. Most items that appear in the plan are in the budget.
Missing half of the costs. 4-5 inaccuracies between budget, and plan.
Missing expenses/costs. Major inaccuracies between budget and plan.
Quotation & Design
All costs are supported by quotes from suppliers or backed up by research. well organized Design is well throughout; the budget has been used to its full potential.
Most costs are supported by quotes from suppliers or backed up by research. Thought has been put into the design, More detail could have been added to better match the budget.
Some of the costs are supported by quotes from suppliers or backed up by research. Budget has not been used to its full potential.
Less than half the costs are supported by quotes from suppliers or backed up by research.
Balance & Calculations, Formulas
Balance is completely accurate. Calculations are correct. EXCEL formulas are perfect.
Balance contains 2-3 inaccuracies. Calculations may be erroneous. EXCEL formulas are perfect.
Balance contains multiple inaccuracies. Calculations are not correct. EXCEL formulas do not work.
Does not balance. No calculations. No EXCEL formulas.
Following Directions/Use of Time and Materials
Always on task, always followed directions—self-starter.
Usually on task, followed directions, needed some guidance and external motivation to start.
Constantly off task and needed considerable guidance/motivating to start/finish.
Always off task. Did not follow directions, did not ask for any help and final product is a result of a lack of motivation.
Comments:
Sub-category #7: Mailing List/Merge (Appeal Letter/Invitation) Rubric CATEGORY DISTINGUISHED PROFICIENT NEEDS
IMPROVEMENT 1 NEEDS
IMPROVEMENT 2
Data Source Table
Contains three columns (last/first, Phone, Address), all data is accurate, sorted, and consistently formatted.
Contains three columns (last/first, Phone, Address), all data is accurate and consistently formatted.
Contains three columns (last/first, Phone, Address), all data is accurate.
Does not contain all three columns or data is not accurate or formatted.
Merged Document
Document contains all required merge fields for the address, salutation and header. Letter is correctly merged and outputted.
Document contains most required merge fields for the address, salutation and header. Letter is correctly merged and outputted.
Document contains some required merge fields for the address, salutation and header. Letter is correctly merged and outputted.
Document contains some required merge fields for the address, salutation and header. Letter is not correctly merged or outputted.
Capitalization and Punctuation
Writer makes no errors in capitalization and punctuation.
Writer makes 1-2 errors in capitalization and punctuation.
Writer makes 3-4 errors in capitalization and punctuation.
Writer makes more than 4 errors in capitalization and punctuation.
Mailing Labels Complete, accurate recipient address. Addresses in correct positions.
Complete, accurate recipient address. Position may be slightly off.
1-2 errors in recipient address.
Addresses are incomplete and/or inaccurate.
Format Complies with all the requirements for a professional document.
Complies with almost all the requirements for a professional document.
Complies with several of the requirements for a professional document.
Complies with less than 75% of the requirements for a professional document.
Following Directions/Use of Time and Materials
Always on task, always followed directions—self-starter.
Usually on task, followed directions, needed some guidance and external motivation to start.
Constantly off task and needed considerable guidance/motivating to start/finish.
Always off task. Did not follow directions, did not ask for any help and final product is a result of a lack of motivation.
Comments:
Sub-category #2: Calendar/Agenda Rubric CATEGORY DISTINGUISHED PROFICIENT NEEDS
IMPROVEMENT 1 NEEDS
IMPROVEMENT 2
Neatness and Organization
The spreadsheet/calendar has exceptional formatting and the information is well organized. It's easy to read.
The spreadsheet has attractive formatting and is somewhat organized. Data can be read and interpreted, but with some difficulty.
The spreadsheet is somewhat organized. Readability needs improvement, as there is great difficult in interpreting information.
The spreadsheet formatting and organization can be confusing to observer. Spreadsheet information is not readable.
Formulas The calendar content is well-developed and will correctly determine the needed information.
The spreadsheet formula(s) will correctly determine the needed information.
The spreadsheet formula(s) cannot be used to correctly determine the needed information.
The spreadsheet has no formula(s)
Titles, Labels and Headings
Contains appropriate information that clearly relate to the data displayed. Contains clearly labeled rows and columns that reflect appropriate calendar information. Updated a minimum of 5X in a two-week period
Contains a title that somewhat relates to the data displayed. Contains clearly labeled rows and columns, but the row-column organization was not completely thought out. Updated a minimum of 4X in a two-week period
Title is present at the top of the graph. Does not contain labels for some of the rows or columns, and spreadsheet shows some signs of disorganization. Updated minimum of 2X in a two-week period.
Does not contain a title. Does not contain any labels for columns and rows. Not consistently updated.
Following Directions/Use of Time and Materials
Always on task, always followed directions—self-starter.
Usually on task, followed directions, needed some guidance and external motivation to start.
Constantly off task and needed considerable guidance/motivating to start/finish.
Always off task. Did not follow directions, did not ask for any help and final product is a result of a lack of motivation.
Comments:
Sub-category #9: Press Release Rubric CATEGORY DISTINGUISHED PROFICIENT NEEDS
IMPROVEMENT 1 NEEDS
IMPROVEMENT 2
Lead Lead is catchy. It makes the reader want to continue to the story. Is positive and specific. Uses strong, active verbs and short, simple words. Is focused, short and memorable
Lead entices reader to go to the lead to see if the story is worth reading. Contains strong, active verbs and short, simple words. Reader not drawn in immediately
Lead is either too long or too short. Lead is vague. Lead is cluttered. Reader is not drawn in at all
Lead has little or nothing to do with the story
Grammar & Spelling
Rules of grammar, usage and punctuation are followed Language is clear and precise; excellent sentence structure No spelling errors.
Contains two or three grammatical, punctuation and spelling errors Language is clear; good sentence structure
Grammatical, punctuation and spelling errors. Language is frequently unclear; no sentence structure
Multiple grammatical, punctuation and spelling errors Language is frequently unclear; no sentence structure
Quote Selection & Structure
Interesting & brief Ties into release material Advances "teaching" aspects Lead-in & transitions work well with quote Attribution is used properly
Does not have one of the five quote requirements
Does not have 2-3 of the five quote requirements
Has one or none of the five quote requirements
Format Release follows designated format guidelines Effective lead Profile is the appropriate length as described for the assignment Used client's letterhead Media contact info included & placed correctly
Release follows designated format guidelines Lead is effective Used client's letterhead Media contact info included, but not placed correctly Content is, for the majority, appropriate
Release lacks the designated format Ineffective lead Media contact info is not included Did not use client's letterhead Page number not included Content is questionable
Ineffective lead Inappropriate content Page number not included Media contact info not included Did not use client's letterhead
Comments:
Sub-category #15: Resume/Reference Page Rubric CATEGORY DISTINGUISHED PROFICIENT NEEDS
IMPROVEMENT 1 NEEDS
IMPROVEMENT 2
Presentation Format
Attractive balanced margins. Consistently formatted headings and sections throughout. Appropriate fonts and point size used throughout
Balanced margins. Somewhat consistently formatted headings and sections. Format identifies strengths and information. Appropriate font used
Somewhat balanced margins. Formatting of headings and sections somewhat sporadic. No variation in font or point size
Unbalanced margins. Headings and sections not formatted consistently. Fonts distract from readability.
Job Specific Information
All action phrases used to describe duties and skills. Information demonstrates ability to perform the job. Professional terminology used when describing skills.
1-2 duties/skills lack action phrases. Information indicated ability to perform the job. Some professional terminology used when describing skills
3-4 duties/skills lack action phrases. Some information indicates ability to perform the job.
5-6 duties/skills lack action phrases. Information does not clearly demonstrate ability to perform the job.
Resume Content
Heading, objective, skills, experience, and education, covered in detail. Extra information given to enhance resume
Heading, objective, skills, experience, and education covered in some detail. Some extra information given to enhance resume
Heading, objective, skills, experience, and education, covered with little detail. Minimum extra information given.
Missing: heading, objective, experience, or education. No extra information given.
Spelling and Grammar
No spelling or grammatical errors.
1-2 spelling and/or grammar errors.
3-4 spelling and/or grammar errors.
5 or more spelling and/or grammar errors.
References Page
Contains heading with complete contact information. Detailed information provided for each reference. Contains three or four references. Typefaces match resume template. References formatted attractively in a table with no borders. Exceptional and attractive formatting applied.
Contains heading with somewhat complete contact information. Somewhat detailed information provided for each reference. Contains two or three references Typefaces match resume template. References formatted somewhat attractively in a table with no borders. Somewhat attractive formatting applied.
Contains heading with some contact information. Minimum information provided for each reference. Contains one or two references. Typefaces do not match resume template. References formatted somewhat unattractively in a table with no borders. Somewhat unattractive formatting applied.
No contact information in heading. Little information provided for each reference. Contains one reference. Typefaces do not match resume template. References formatted unattractively in a table with no borders. Unattractive formatting applied.
Comments:
Sub-category #14: Reflection/Journal Rubric CATEGORY DISTINGUISHED PROFICIENT NEEDS
IMPROVEMENT 1 NEEDS
IMPROVEMENT 2
Organization Information is very
well organized and
presented in a clear
and concise
manner. All
necessary
information is
represented
Information is
organized and
presented in a
concise manner.
Most necessary
information is
represented
Information is
presented, but not
concisely. Most
information is
missing.
Information is not
well organized.
Little time or
thought dedicated
to planning is
evident.
Content & Date Recording
Content and purpose of the writing are clear. Date is correctly written at the top right-hand corner of every page.
Content is inconsistent regarding purpose and clarity of thought. Date is inconsistently/ incorrectly written.
Content is incomplete. Missing date on all pages.
Content is unclear and doesn’t relate to purpose. Pages are missing.
Following Directions/Use of Time and Materials
Always on task, always followed directions—self-starter.
Usually on task, followed directions, needed some guidance and external motivation to start.
Constantly off task and needed considerable guidance/motivating to start/finish.
Always off task. Did not follow directions, did not ask for any help and final product is a result of a lack of motivation.
Comments: