Visual Analysis Rubric
Criteria High Distinction
(85-100)
Distinction
(75-84)
Credit (65-74) Pass (50-64) Fail (40-49) Fail (0-40)
Demonstrates a
clear grasp of
relevant key
theoretical
concepts
Demonstrates a
sophisticated and
nuanced
understanding of
key concepts;
situates the
concepts within
specific and
relevant contexts
Demonstrates a
proficient
understanding of
the key concepts;
draws links
concepts to
relevant contexts
Demonstrates a
functional
understanding of
the key concepts;
may link them to
their context
Demonstrates the
ability to identify
some key
concepts and
offer a developing
understanding;
may reflect
incomplete
understanding;
may not reflect
understanding of
their context
Failure to identify
relevant key
concepts and
offer an
understanding
Failure to identify
relevant key
concepts
Develops an
argument that is
supported by
both theoretical
concepts and
forensic analysis
of a well chosen
example
Sophisticated
analysis that
draws on original
research including
theoretical
concepts and a
well chosen
example in order
to support
arguments;
identifies
competing
arguments
Identifies and
develops a welltheorised
and
proficient
argument that
draws on
concepts and a
well-chosen
example to
support claims
Identifies and
develops a
productive
argument that
draws on with
relevant
examples; may
rely too much on
description
Identifies and
develops an
argument that is
often supported
by reference to
concepts and
examples; tends
to rely on
description; some
generalisations
Attempts to
develop an
argument but
lacks evidence;
relies on
generalisations
and unsupported
assertions
Failure to identify
and analyse key
concepts;
disregard for
evidence to
support claims
Effective use of
communication
skills to present
academic
research
Demonstrates
sophisticated and
complex
communication
skills; the piece is
logically
structured;
accurate and
consistent use of
referencing
Demonstrates
cogent
communication
skills; the piece is
logically
structured;
competent use of
referencing
Demonstrates
clear
communication
skills; competent
use of referencing
Demonstrates
communication
skills that are
developing; may
include unclear
passages;
occasional errors;
applies academic
referencing but
there may be
inconsistencies.
Failure to
communicate
clearly; imprecise
word choice;
some errors in
grammar and
spelling; poor
attempt to use
academic
referencing
Failure to
communicate
clearly; multiple
errors in spelling
and grammar;
failure to use
academic
referencing
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