VISOR Rubric

Decision Points and BlueBooks use the same five criteria. The evaluation language applies to all group presentations and individual essays.

Voice

  • 0.5 points: You defend a clear, original position that reflects your own critical thinking.

  • 0.25 points: You express an opinion, but rely on generic ideas or borrowed phrasing.

  • 0 points: You do not take a clear stance or make your own argument.

Inquiry

  • 0.5 points: You actively investigate a significant question about a real decision or conflict.

  • 0.25 points: You introduce a relevant question, but only describe it rather than exploring it.

  • 0 points: You list isolated facts without pursuing a driving question.

Specificity

  • 0.5 points: You support claims with precise evidence like names, dates, laws, cases, or events.

  • 0.25 points: You mention examples, but keep the details broad, vague, or partially unclear.

  • 0 points: You state claims without providing concrete, usable evidence.

Evidence

  • 0.5 points: You explicitly connect your arguments to course readings, lectures, discussions, and sources.

  • 0.25 points: You describe course concepts, but leave the exact source or material unclear.

  • 0 points: You offer no link to any course sources or class materials.

Reflection

  • 0.5 points: You explain the bigger picture by evaluating why the decision, conflict, or outcome matters.

  • 0.25 points: You interpret the meaning of the facts, but miss explaining what is actually at stake.

  • 0 points: You summarize or recall information without offering insight or critical reflection.

Fall 2026: DECISION POINTS

Decision Point Scoring

= 2.25–2.50 / A work (Excellent)
OR class consensus

= 2.00–2.24 / B work (Above Average)

= 1.75–1.99 / C work (Average)

= 1.50–1.74 / D work (Below Average)

= < 1.50 / F - Incomplete (Fail)

Public debate strengthens our personal judgment.

Every Unit, Decision Points groups ask students to debate a consequential choice from American History and Government.

Every Unit, BlueBook Essays ask each individual student to reflect, in handwriting, on what that choice means to them.

Two Questions

What decision point defines this unit?
What should we learn from it?

2-4 Minutes

You’ll work across different groups to identify the figure(s), compare perspectives, and present your case to your classmates.

BlueBook Essays

After all presentations have been given, each student will handwrite a closed-note reflection essay.