Rubric to Assess Oral Communication

Organization

Presentation is clear, logical and organized. Listener can follow line of reasoning.

Presentation is generally clear and well organized. A few minor points may be confusing.

Listener can follow presentation only with effort. Some arguments are not clear. Organization seems haphazard.

Style

Level of presentation is appropriate for the audience. Presentation is a planned conversation, paced for audience understanding. It is not a reading of a paper. Speaker is clearly comfortable in front of the group and can be heard by all.

Level of presentation is generally appropriate. Pacing is sometimes too fast or slow. The presenter seems slightly uncomfortable at times, and the audience occasionally has trouble hearing him/her.

Aspects of presentation are too elementary or too sophisticated for audience. Presenter seems uncomfortable and can be heard only if listener is very attentive.

Much of the information is read.

Use of communication aids

Communication aids enhance the presentation. They are prepared in a professional manner

• Font on visuals is large enough to be seen by all.

• Information is organized to maximize audience understanding.

• Details are minimized sot that main points stand out.

Communication aids contribute to the quality of the presentation.

Font size is appropriate for reading. Appropriate information is included. Some material is not supported by visual aids.

Communication aids are poorly prepared or used inappropriately. Font is too small to be easily seen. Too much information is included. Unimportant material is highlighted. Listeners may be confused.

Depth of content

Speaker provides an accurate and complete explanation of key concepts and theories, drawing upon relevant literature.

Applications of theory are included to illuminate issues. Listeners gain insights.

For the most part, explanations of concepts and theories are accurate and complete. Some helpful applications are included.

Explanations of concepts and/or theories are inaccurate or incomplete. Little attempt is made to tie theory to practice. Listeners gain little from the presentation.

Grammar and word choice

Sentences are complete and grammatical, and they flow together easily. Words are chosen for their precise meaning.

For the most part, sentences are complete and grammatical, and they flow together easily. With a few exceptions, words are chosen for their precise meaning.

Listeners can follow the presentation, but they are distracted by some grammatical errors and use of slang. Some sentences are incomplete/hauling/, and or vocabulary is somewhat limited or inappropriate.

Personal appearance

Personal appearance is completely appropriate for the occasion and the audience.

Personal appearance is generally appropriate for the occasion and audience. However, some aspects of appearance reflect a lack of sensitivity to nuances of the occasion or expectations of the audience.

Personal appearance is inappropriate for the occasion and audience.

Verbal interaction

Consistently clarifies, restates, and responds to questions.

Summarizes when needed.

Generally responds to audience comments, questions and needs. Misses some opportunities for interaction.

Responds to questions inadequately.