Which element defines the scoring rubrics and thresholds for performance tasks?

• A. Clear Assessment
• B. Detailed Explanation
• C. Assessment Criteria
• D. Mark Bands

Answer: (C)

Assessment criteria provide the standards that spell out what counts as evidence of learning and performance. They define the specific features, behaviors, or elements that must be present at different levels, and from these descriptors a scoring rubric is built and the thresholds for each grade or band are set. While mark bands describe the levels of achievement within the rubric, the criteria supply the content of those levels—what counts as meeting, partially meeting, or exceeding the expectations. So, the element that defines the scoring rubrics and thresholds for performance tasks is the assessment criteria.