Rubric
Budgeting Basics Rubric
Assess 6th graders’ budgeting skills across four key criteria using a 4‐point scale.
| Criterion | 4 – Exemplary | 3 – Proficient | 2 – Developing | 1 – Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Planning | Identifies all income and expenses with detailed categories and prioritizes effectively. | Identifies most income and expenses with some prioritization. | Identifies some income and expenses but lacks clear prioritization. | Misses key income or expense items and shows no prioritization. | |
| Allocation | Allocates funds appropriately to all categories ensuring a balanced budget. | Allocates funds appropriately to most categories with minor imbalances. | Allocates funds but with significant imbalances across categories. | Allocation is inappropriate or incomplete across categories. | |
| Reflection | Provides thoughtful explanation of budgeting choices and potential adjustments. | Explains budgeting choices with some rationale for adjustments. | Provides basic explanation with limited rationale. | Provides minimal or no explanation of choices. | |
| Accuracy | All calculations are correct; totals and balances match perfectly. | Calculations contain minor errors that do not affect overall balance significantly. | Calculations contain errors affecting the budget balance. | Calculations are mostly incorrect, leading to inaccurate budget. |
Scoring Key
- 4 (Exemplary): Demonstrates thorough understanding and application of skills.
- 3 (Proficient): Meets expectations with minor errors.
- 2 (Developing): Partial understanding; needs support.
- 1 (Beginning): Limited understanding; significant errors.
Use this rubric during the 20-minute budgeting activity to provide timely, objective feedback and guide students toward stronger financial decision-making.
