What do descriptors in a rubric help to clarify?

Descriptors in a rubric are essential for providing specific details about what is expected at each performance level. They outline the criteria that students need to meet to achieve a particular score or grade, helping both instructors and students understand what constitutes quality work. By clearly defining the characteristics of performance for different levels, descriptors help clarify the expectations and standards required for the task, enabling students to assess their own work and understand areas for improvement. This clarity fosters meaningful learning by guiding students on how to enhance their performance and promoting self-directed learning.

The other options do not primarily focus on performance assessment. Format refers to how the assessment is structured, the grading scale addresses scoring systems, and required materials pertain to what students need to complete an assignment—all of which are important but do not relate directly to performance criteria as described by the descriptors in the rubric.