Quantitative and Scientific Reasoning Rubric

Undergraduate

Analysis* Calculations* Visual Representations of Data and Information Scientific Methodology
4
(Advanced)
Demonstrates advanced reasoning based on quantifiable information; judgments and conclusions are exceptionally insightful

• Accurately completes calculations for the assignment and presents results clearly and concisely

• Chooses appropriate formulas or symbolic models to solve problems and justify choices

Produces highly effective visual representations of data (e.g. tables) or concepts (e.g. graphs) tables) or
concepts (e.g.
graphs)

• Skillfully and precisely engages in the 6 steps needed in undertaking a science-based approach to gathering and interpreting evidence

1. Identify problem

2. Formulate a hypothesis

3. Design a project to test hypothesis

4. Collect data

5. Analyze data

6. Draw conclusions based on data

• Exhibits highly accurate and exhaustive analysis of data

• Produces work that contributes to the field

3
(Competent)
Demonstrates competent
reasoning based on
quantifiable information;
judgments and
conclusions are adequate
and reasonable

Calculations are completed and largely successful

• Chooses appropriate formulas or symbolic models to solve problems and justify choices

Produces competent visual representations of data

Engages in all 6 steps needed in undertaking a science-based approach to gathering and interpreting data

• Produces an analysis of data

• Produces work that meets the requirements of the assignments/course

2
(Emerging)
Demonstrates emerging
reasoning based on
quantifiable information
as exhibited by difficulty
in formulating judgments
or drawing conclusions

Calculations contain multiple errors

• May not choose the most appropriate or effective formula

• May exhibit some problems justifying choices

Visual representations may reflect minor flaws or inaccuracies

Engages in the 6 steps but may exhibit problems with a few

• Analysis of data may reflect minor inaccuracies of observation

• Work may not fully satisfy the requirements of the assignment/course

1
(Beginning)
Demonstrates beginning
reasoning based on
quantifiable information
as exhibited by difficulty
understanding what
constitutes quantifiable
information, inability to
formulate reasonable
judgments and/or
drawing reasonable
conclusions.

Calculations may be unsuccessful or incomplete

• Does not appear to understand the parameters of the appropriate formula

• Is unable to select the right formula for the problem (decision-making unclear)

The method for visually presenting information or concepts is highly inaccurate or imprecise

Exhibits problems in many if not most of the steps required for the scientific process

• Analysis of data is incomplete, inaccurate, or absent

• Work does not satisfy the requirements of the assignment/course

* This column is used to simultaneously assess critical thinking

Download PDF: Quantitative Reasoning Rubric (Undergraduate) 2013-2014