rubric

noun

1. A set of criteria or a scoring guide that explains how work, such as an essay or project, will be evaluated and graded.

   B2

   countableeducational

   • "The teacher gave us the grading rubric before we started the essay."B2
   • "According to the marking rubric, clarity and evidence each count for thirty percent of the grade."B2

2. A heading or set of directions printed at the beginning of a document, especially in a book or exam paper.

   C1

   countableformal

   • "The rubric at the top of the exam told students to answer only two questions."C1

3. An established rule, set of instructions, or category under which something is classified or done.

   C2

   countableformal

   • "The program was funded under the rubric of public health."C2
   • "He followed the rubric of the old ceremony without deviation."C2

4. A heading or note of instruction in a book, especially in a liturgical text or legal document, traditionally written in red.

   C2

   countabletechnical

   • "The rubric in the prayer book told the congregation when to stand."C2