Scoring Rubrics
Each audition area is evaluated by trained adjudicators using the rubrics below. Review the criteria and point values to understand how performances are scored.
Adjudicator Review
Trained adjudicators independently evaluate each student using the criteria below.
Points Totaled
Each criterion is scored up to its maximum points. All scores are added together for a total.
Threshold Met
Total scores are compared against each area's threshold to determine placement eligibility.
Choose a school level to see the rubrics used for those grades.
Creative Writing Rubric (Elementary)
Max Score
50
Threshold
40
Creativity and Originality
The writer manifests exceptional imaginative skills, original
Stream of significant ideas unusual for development level (Fluency)
Shifts categories often and with ease, flexible and creative (Flexibility)
Vivid imagery, complex details, unusual for developmental level (Elaboration)
Distinct approach, sophisticated ideas, completely original & unique (Originality)
Voice/Style
Creates a vivid, precise, and engaging writer’s voice and tone
Audience Awareness/Impact
The writer’s choices demonstrate an intimate awareness of their audience and the impact of their choices on the reader’s understanding and emotions
Clarity/ Coherence
The writer’s intention is clear and illuminating, and maintains focus
Organization is logically structured and enhances meaning
Word Choice
The writer masterfully employs literary techniques that extend throughout the piece, vividly capture the reader's imagination, and bring the story/ topic to life
Dance Rubric (Elementary)
Max Score
50
Threshold
50
CHOREOGRAPHY
Advanced comprehension of choreography
Able to connect movements in smooth and cohesive phrases and transitions
MUSICALITY
High degree of musicality in interpretation of sequence, demonstrating full range of dynamics, and moves whole body to underlying beat.
DANCE SKILLS & BODY AWARENESS
Demonstrates advanced skill to appropriate to dance genre(s) including alignment, turnout and control, flexibility and strength
Presence- consistently performs w/ fluidity, readiness, coherence, integration
Advanced level of body and spatial awareness by self and in group
ENERGY LEVEL & CONFIDENCE
Advanced ability to communicate ideas and feelings through expressiveness and intensity of movements.
GUIDED IMPROVISATION
Demonstrates advanced skill and understanding of the elements of dance through movement choices. Embraces spontaneity and originality
OVERALL EXECUTION
Clarity of movements, poise, confidence and expression
Outstanding artistry, full commitment to movement. Dances with focus, confidence, energy and artistry.
Drama Rubric (Elementary)
Max Score
50
Threshold
40
Physical Performance
Creatively uses variety of dynamic movements motivated from core and are natural including excellent use of space and varied dynamic levels.
Dynamic facial expression to create character
Vocal Performance
Exceptional use of voice including projectionwith variety of levels, engaging and dynamic vocal energy, outstanding articulation and vocal clarity and uses colorful/dynamic expression
Characterization
Fully developed character w/ complex, original choices that is exceptionally honest & believable demonstrating outstanding depth of understanding of given circumstances
Imagination, Creativity and Improvisation
Actively listens and engages in creative problem solving, exceptional skill in building on ideas of others.
Innovative and creative ideas with nuanced artistic choices
Embraces spontaneity and originality to create a highly effective and clever performance.
Energy & Focus
Energy is dynamic and engages whole body and performance; engaging and connected throughout demonstrating extraordinary focus.
Collaboration
Actively listens and engages in creative problem solving, exceptional skill in building on ideas of others and peer collaboration.
Overall Performance
Performance exhibits outstanding preparation, choices were creative and original, and demonstrates a high level of confidence.
Drama Tech Rubric (Elementary)
Max Score
52
Threshold
55
Interpretation and Design
Exceptional and artistic organization in demonstration of given tasks
Design concepts are precise, clear, meaningful, and cohesive, employing symbolism, metaphor, and abstract thinking
Original artistic concept which enhances and embraces the vision
Aesthetics and Execution
Exceptional artistic vision, justification, precision, clarity of design
Exceptional detail and specificity which enhances the design
Dramatic elements seamlessly work to establish character, time, location, and enhances the mood of piece
Presentation
Demonstrates, highly artistic, comprehensive understanding of the play/story
Fully developed, creative justification synthesis of technical work. i.e. design elements & principles, collaboration, production concept, detail & descriptive elements
Presentation of the final product is innovative and compelling
Design & presentation is exceptionally organized & demonstrates deep understanding
Imagination and Creativity
Exceptional, precise ideas above grade level
Proposes innovative creative and/or unusual solutions above grade level
Collaboration and Focus
Excels above grade-level when encountering challenging material
Music Instrumental Rubric (Elementary)
Max Score
50
Threshold
40
Tone Quality
Tone is warm, resonant, controlled, clear, focused, consistent, vibrant, rich, full, and beautiful
Accuracy
Pitches/rhythms are performed accurately
Intonation
Intonation is within or above the appropriate developmental range. The student shifts cleanly if shifts are performed
Rhythm and Pulse
Gives notes and rests proper value and always maintains a steady pulse
Technique and Articulation
Student uses appropriate playing technique
Student uses appropriate articulation, including attacks and releases
Interpretation
Phrasing and dynamics are performed with nuance
The style and tempo are appropriate to the musical selection
The performance is expressive and sensitive to style
Level of Difficulty
Difficulty above or below grade level
Music Vocal Rubric (Elementary)
Max Score
50
Threshold
40
Tone Quality/ Technique
Tone is warm, resonant, focused, consistent, vibrant, and full
Consistent between head and chest voice
Breath management is effective and consistent
Intonation/ Rhythmic Accuracy
Printed pitches are performed accurately with great intonation
Notes and rests are held for the correct value with exceptional flow with steady tempo and musicality
Diction
Diction is clear and enhances breath flow.
Musicality
Phrasing emphasizes the contour of melodic line in context of the whole piece
Dynamic nuances are performed with finesse and artistic contrast
Performance
Student expresses themselves through the music selected demonstrating great enthusiasm and potential
Student has exceptional posture and poise in performance
Visual Arts Rubric (Elementary)
Max Score
50
Threshold
40
Composition
Artwork shows exceptional application of design
Organization of composition is complex and detailed
Demonstrates a highly refined awareness of detail, form, and proportion; captures nuanced aspects of observed subjects with originality and confidence (observational drawing).
Creativity and Originality
Artwork shows inventive adaptation and assimilation of complex themes
Personal style is evident and reflected through creative expression
Demonstrates creative risk-taking and strong visual storytelling (imaginative representation).
Skills & Craftsmanship
Exceptional technical skills are demonstrated when compared to same-age peers
Artwork demonstrates exceptionally unique and experimental use of media
Elements and Principles of Art
Elements are well-defined, deliberate, and used in complexity to achieve outstanding results
Student creates work that exhibits a high level of understanding and application of the Principles of Art
Creative Writing Rubric (Secondary)
Max Score
50
Threshold
40
Creativity and Originality
The writer manifests exceptional imaginative skills, original
Stream of significant ideas unusual for development level (Fluency)
Shifts categories often and with ease, flexible and creative (Flexibility)
Vivid imagery, complex details, unusual for developmental level (Elaboration)
Distinct approach, sophisticated ideas, completely original & unique (Originality)
Voice/Style
Creates a vivid, precise, and engaging writer’s voice and tone
Audience Awareness/Impact
The writer’s choices demonstrate an intimate awareness of their audience and the impact of their choices on the reader’s understanding and emotions
Clarity/ Coherence
The writer’s intention is clear and illuminating, and maintains focus
Organization is logically structured and enhances meaning
Word Choice
The writer masterfully employs literary techniques that extend throughout the piece, vividly capture the reader's imagination, and bring the story/ topic to life
Dance Rubric (Secondary)
Max Score
68
Threshold
68
SEQUENCING and RECALL
Advanced comprehension of choreography
Able to connect movements in smooth and cohesive phrases and transitions
TIME/RHYTHM
High degree of musicality in interpretation of sequence, demonstrating full range of dynamics
Moves whole body to underlying beat demonstrating advanced skill in feeling the beat
DANCE SKILLS & BODY AWARENESS
Demonstrates advanced skill in alignment, turnout and control, flexibility and strength, use of extension
Advanced skill appropriate to dance genre(s) demonstrated
Advanced coordination of skills to execute movements with precision and fluidity
Presence: consistently performs w/ fluidity, readiness, coherence, integration
Advanced level of body and spatial awareness by self and in group
ENERGY LEVEL & CONFIDENCE
Advanced ability to communicate ideas & feelings through expressivity, intensity of movement
Dances w/focus, confidence, energy, artistry
GUIDED IMPROVISATION
Demonstrates advanced skill and understanding of the elements of dance through movement choices
Communicates ideas and artistry through expression and movement choices
Embraces spontaneity and originality
OVERALL EXECUTION
Clarity of movements, poise, confidence and expression
Outstanding artistry, full commitment to movement
Performance looks polished and effortless
Drama Rubric (Secondary)
Max Score
50
Threshold
40
Physical Performance
Creatively uses variety of dynamic movements motivated from core and are natural including excellent use of space and varied dynamic levels.
Dynamic facial expression to create character
Vocal Performance
Exceptional use of voice including projectionwith variety of levels, engaging and dynamic vocal energy, outstanding articulation and vocal clarity and uses colorful/dynamic expression
Characterization
Fully developed character w/ complex, original choices that is exceptionally honest & believable demonstrating outstanding depth of understanding of given circumstances
Imagination, Creativity and Improvisation
Actively listens and engages in creative problem solving, exceptional skill in building on ideas of others.
Innovative and creative ideas with nuanced artistic choices
Embraces spontaneity and originality to create a highly effective and clever performance.
Energy & Focus
Energy is dynamic and engages whole body and performance; engaging and connected throughout demonstrating extraordinary focus.
Collaboration
Actively listens and engages in creative problem solving, exceptional skill in building on ideas of others and peer collaboration.
Overall Performance
Performance exhibits outstanding preparation, choices were creative and original, and demonstrates a high level of confidence.
Drama Tech Rubric (Secondary)
Max Score
52
Threshold
55
Interpretation and Design
Exceptional and artistic organization in demonstration of given tasks
Design concepts are precise, clear, meaningful, and cohesive, employing symbolism, metaphor, and abstract thinking
Original artistic concept which enhances and embraces the vision
Aesthetics and Execution
Exceptional artistic vision, justification, precision, clarity of design
Exceptional detail and specificity which enhances the design
Dramatic elements seamlessly work to establish character, time, location, and enhances the mood of piece
Presentation
Demonstrates, highly artistic, comprehensive understanding of the play/story
Fully developed, creative justification synthesis of technical work. i.e. design elements & principles, collaboration, production concept, detail & descriptive elements
Presentation of the final product is innovative and compelling
Design & presentation is exceptionally organized & demonstrates deep understanding
Imagination and Creativity
Exceptional, precise ideas above grade level
Proposes innovative creative and/or unusual solutions above grade level
Collaboration and Focus
Excels above grade-level when encountering challenging material
Music Instrumental Rubric (Secondary)
Max Score
50
Threshold
40
Tone Quality
Tone is warm, resonant, controlled, clear, focused, consistent, vibrant, rich, full, and beautiful
Accuracy
Pitches/rhythms are performed accurately
Intonation
Intonation is within or above the appropriate developmental range. The student shifts cleanly if shifts are performed
Rhythm and Pulse
Gives notes and rests proper value and always maintains a steady pulse
Technique and Articulation
Student uses appropriate playing technique
Student uses appropriate articulation, including attacks and releases
Interpretation
Phrasing and dynamics are performed with nuance
The style and tempo are appropriate to the musical selection
The performance is expressive and sensitive to style
Level of Difficulty
Difficulty above or below grade level
Music Vocal Rubric (Secondary)
Max Score
50
Threshold
40
Tone Quality/ Technique
Tone is warm, resonant, focused, consistent, vibrant, and full
Consistent between head and chest voice
Breath management is effective and consistent
Intonation/ Rhythmic Accuracy
Printed pitches are performed accurately with great intonation
Notes and rests are held for the correct value with exceptional flow with steady tempo and musicality
Diction
Diction is clear and enhances breath flow.
Musicality
Phrasing emphasizes the contour of melodic line in context of the whole piece
Dynamic nuances are performed with finesse and artistic contrast
Performance
Student expresses themselves through the music selected demonstrating great enthusiasm and potential
Student has exceptional posture and poise in performance
Visual Arts Rubric (Secondary)
Max Score
50
Threshold
40
Composition
Artwork shows exceptional application of design
Organization of composition is complex and detailed
Demonstrates a highly refined awareness of detail, form, and proportion; captures nuanced aspects of observed subjects with originality and confidence (observational drawing).
Creativity and Originality
Artwork shows inventive adaptation and assimilation of complex themes
Personal style is evident and reflected through creative expression
Demonstrates creative risk-taking and strong visual storytelling (imaginative representation).
Skills & Craftsmanship
Exceptional technical skills are demonstrated when compared to same-age peers
Artwork demonstrates exceptionally unique and experimental use of media
Elements and Principles of Art
Elements are well-defined, deliberate, and used in complexity to achieve outstanding results
Student creates work that exhibits a high level of understanding and application of the Principles of Art
Creative Writing Rubric (Secondary)
Max Score
50
Threshold
40
Creativity and Originality
The writer manifests exceptional imaginative skills, original
Stream of significant ideas unusual for development level (Fluency)
Shifts categories often and with ease, flexible and creative (Flexibility)
Vivid imagery, complex details, unusual for developmental level (Elaboration)
Distinct approach, sophisticated ideas, completely original & unique (Originality)
Voice/Style
Creates a vivid, precise, and engaging writer’s voice and tone
Audience Awareness/Impact
The writer’s choices demonstrate an intimate awareness of their audience and the impact of their choices on the reader’s understanding and emotions
Clarity/ Coherence
The writer’s intention is clear and illuminating, and maintains focus
Organization is logically structured and enhances meaning
Word Choice
The writer masterfully employs literary techniques that extend throughout the piece, vividly capture the reader's imagination, and bring the story/ topic to life
Dance Rubric (Secondary)
Max Score
68
Threshold
68
SEQUENCING and RECALL
Advanced comprehension of choreography
Able to connect movements in smooth and cohesive phrases and transitions
TIME/RHYTHM
High degree of musicality in interpretation of sequence, demonstrating full range of dynamics
Moves whole body to underlying beat demonstrating advanced skill in feeling the beat
DANCE SKILLS & BODY AWARENESS
Demonstrates advanced skill in alignment, turnout and control, flexibility and strength, use of extension
Advanced skill appropriate to dance genre(s) demonstrated
Advanced coordination of skills to execute movements with precision and fluidity
Presence: consistently performs w/ fluidity, readiness, coherence, integration
Advanced level of body and spatial awareness by self and in group
ENERGY LEVEL & CONFIDENCE
Advanced ability to communicate ideas & feelings through expressivity, intensity of movement
Dances w/focus, confidence, energy, artistry
GUIDED IMPROVISATION
Demonstrates advanced skill and understanding of the elements of dance through movement choices
Communicates ideas and artistry through expression and movement choices
Embraces spontaneity and originality
OVERALL EXECUTION
Clarity of movements, poise, confidence and expression
Outstanding artistry, full commitment to movement
Performance looks polished and effortless
Drama Rubric (Secondary)
Max Score
50
Threshold
40
Physical Performance
Creatively uses variety of dynamic movements motivated from core and are natural including excellent use of space and varied dynamic levels.
Dynamic facial expression to create character
Vocal Performance
Exceptional use of voice including projectionwith variety of levels, engaging and dynamic vocal energy, outstanding articulation and vocal clarity and uses colorful/dynamic expression
Characterization
Fully developed character w/ complex, original choices that is exceptionally honest & believable demonstrating outstanding depth of understanding of given circumstances
Imagination, Creativity and Improvisation
Actively listens and engages in creative problem solving, exceptional skill in building on ideas of others.
Innovative and creative ideas with nuanced artistic choices
Embraces spontaneity and originality to create a highly effective and clever performance.
Energy & Focus
Energy is dynamic and engages whole body and performance; engaging and connected throughout demonstrating extraordinary focus.
Collaboration
Actively listens and engages in creative problem solving, exceptional skill in building on ideas of others and peer collaboration.
Overall Performance
Performance exhibits outstanding preparation, choices were creative and original, and demonstrates a high level of confidence.
Drama Tech Rubric (Secondary)
Max Score
52
Threshold
55
Interpretation and Design
Exceptional and artistic organization in demonstration of given tasks
Design concepts are precise, clear, meaningful, and cohesive, employing symbolism, metaphor, and abstract thinking
Original artistic concept which enhances and embraces the vision
Aesthetics and Execution
Exceptional artistic vision, justification, precision, clarity of design
Exceptional detail and specificity which enhances the design
Dramatic elements seamlessly work to establish character, time, location, and enhances the mood of piece
Presentation
Demonstrates, highly artistic, comprehensive understanding of the play/story
Fully developed, creative justification synthesis of technical work. i.e. design elements & principles, collaboration, production concept, detail & descriptive elements
Presentation of the final product is innovative and compelling
Design & presentation is exceptionally organized & demonstrates deep understanding
Imagination and Creativity
Exceptional, precise ideas above grade level
Proposes innovative creative and/or unusual solutions above grade level
Collaboration and Focus
Excels above grade-level when encountering challenging material
Music Instrumental Rubric (Secondary)
Max Score
50
Threshold
40
Tone Quality
Tone is warm, resonant, controlled, clear, focused, consistent, vibrant, rich, full, and beautiful
Accuracy
Pitches/rhythms are performed accurately
Intonation
Intonation is within or above the appropriate developmental range. The student shifts cleanly if shifts are performed
Rhythm and Pulse
Gives notes and rests proper value and always maintains a steady pulse
Technique and Articulation
Student uses appropriate playing technique
Student uses appropriate articulation, including attacks and releases
Interpretation
Phrasing and dynamics are performed with nuance
The style and tempo are appropriate to the musical selection
The performance is expressive and sensitive to style
Level of Difficulty
Difficulty above or below grade level
Music Vocal Rubric (Secondary)
Max Score
50
Threshold
40
Tone Quality/ Technique
Tone is warm, resonant, focused, consistent, vibrant, and full
Consistent between head and chest voice
Breath management is effective and consistent
Intonation/ Rhythmic Accuracy
Printed pitches are performed accurately with great intonation
Notes and rests are held for the correct value with exceptional flow with steady tempo and musicality
Diction
Diction is clear and enhances breath flow.
Musicality
Phrasing emphasizes the contour of melodic line in context of the whole piece
Dynamic nuances are performed with finesse and artistic contrast
Performance
Student expresses themselves through the music selected demonstrating great enthusiasm and potential
Student has exceptional posture and poise in performance
Visual Arts Rubric (Secondary)
Max Score
50
Threshold
40
Composition
Artwork shows exceptional application of design
Organization of composition is complex and detailed
Demonstrates a highly refined awareness of detail, form, and proportion; captures nuanced aspects of observed subjects with originality and confidence (observational drawing).
Creativity and Originality
Artwork shows inventive adaptation and assimilation of complex themes
Personal style is evident and reflected through creative expression
Demonstrates creative risk-taking and strong visual storytelling (imaginative representation).
Skills & Craftsmanship
Exceptional technical skills are demonstrated when compared to same-age peers
Artwork demonstrates exceptionally unique and experimental use of media
Elements and Principles of Art
Elements are well-defined, deliberate, and used in complexity to achieve outstanding results
Student creates work that exhibits a high level of understanding and application of the Principles of Art