CELL THEORY RUBRIC FOR UNDERSTANDING
EXPLANATION
APPLICATION
PERSPECTIVE
Sophisticated: Student is able to
explain cell theory, cell structure and
function, and the levels of organization
of an organism in a thorough, deep,
and well thought out manner.
Evidence is fully supported and
student goes above and beyond the
basics.
Masterful: Student is able to use their
knowledge of cell theory in a fluent,
flexible, and efficient way.
Insightful: Student is able
to see how the facts/truths
of cell theory are directly
related to how life exists
on Earth.
In-depth: Student is able to explain
cell theory, cell structure and function,
and the levels of organization of an
organism in a way that goes beyond
the basics of what is taught. Learning
is supported by the facts, and
students show ability to think in unique
and novel ways.
Skilled: Student is able to use their
cell theory knowledge in a variety of
complex ways.
Thorough: Student can
see how most parts of cell
theory relate to how life
functions on Earth.
Developed: Student is able to explain
cell theory, cell structure and function,
and the levels of organization of an
organism in a manner that is
somewhat in-depth and personalized.
Student information is supported by
facts, but adequate information is
lacking.
Able: Student is able to use cell
theory knowledge in a few ways, but
lacks complexity.
Considered: Students
has a limited vision of how
cell theory relates to the
function of life on Earth.
Intuitive: Student explains parts of
cell theory, cell structure and function,
and the levels of organization of an
organism; however, information lacks
support, and complexity.
Apprentice: Student is able to use
cell theory knowledge in limited and
familiar contexts only.
Aware: Student is aware
that cell theory has
something to do with life
on Earth, but is unable to
explain in a thoughtful
way.
Naïve: Student gives a lackluster and
unintuitive explanation of cell theory,
cell structure and function, and the
levels of organization of an organism.
Information lacks support, and only
gives a superficial overview.
Novice: Student is not able to use cell
theory knowledge without coaching or
a highly scripted activity.
Uncritical: Student is
unable to see that cell
theory determines how life
functions on Earth.
Source: Wiggins & McTighe, 1998, pp.76-77