The Classical Liberal Arts Academy (CLAA) has clear and transparent standards for grading written assignments. While the use of AI tools is monitored and restricted, grading itself is always based on fixed criteria and demonstrated student ability. This ensures that grades accurately reflect the student’s own work, not what a machine has produced.
1. Fixed Rubric for All Written Assignments
All written assignments are graded using a standard 100-point rubric, with 10 criteria worth 10 points each:
1. Assignment questions included before answers
2. All questions answered
3. All answers written in complete sentences
4. Formatting clear, consistent, and helpful
5. All words spelled and capitalized correctly
6. Punctuation used correctly
7. Answers supported with lesson content
8. Answers true and reasonable
9. Answers clear and easy to understand
10. Answers honestly written
Each criterion receives a score from 0 to 10. A perfect score is 100 points. A minimum of 90 is required to pass at the mastery level.
2. AI Detection Scans
- All written assessments are automatically scanned by an AI detection tool upon submission.
- If a submission is flagged as potentially AI-generated, it is reviewed manually by the grading team or Mr. Michael.
- Review focuses on evaluating whether the work reflects genuine student engagement with the lesson.
- If AI assistance is detected and confirmed, grading may be adjusted or the student may be required to resubmit.
3. Grading with AI Flags
- A flagged assignment does not automatically receive a failing grade.
- The grader will determine whether the work contains meaningful, original student contributions.
- If the submission appears AI-generated with minimal or no original work, it will not receive credit.
- If there are minor AI indicators but substantial student work is present, feedback will address the issue and resubmission may be required.
4. Honesty Criterion (Criterion 10)
- Criterion 10 explicitly evaluates whether the work is “honestly written.”
- If AI-generated language is detected, points may be deducted for this criterion.
- A dishonest or machine-written response cannot receive full credit, regardless of how polished it appears.
5. Resubmission Opportunity
- Students may revise and resubmit any written assignment.
- If a submission is flagged for AI use, students are encouraged to rewrite it entirely in their own words.
- Resubmitted work is regraded according to the same 10-point rubric, without penalty for the previous submission.
6. Live Examinations for Verification
- Students pursuing certificates or diplomas must pass live examinations.
- Any student relying on AI-generated writing will be unable to demonstrate real knowledge in these live assessments.
- This ensures that only authentic learning is ultimately rewarded.
7. Example of High-Quality Work
An exemplary submission demonstrates:
- Proper formatting and structure
- Detailed reference to the lesson content
- Clear, personal language that reflects the student’s own understanding
- Correct spelling, punctuation, and grammar
- Honest, original engagement with the material
Summary
- Written assignments are graded using a fixed 10-criterion, 100-point rubric.
- All submissions are scanned by AI detection tools and reviewed manually when flagged.
- Points are deducted or credit withheld if AI-generated content is used dishonestly.
- Students may always revise and resubmit flagged work for regrading.
- Live examinations verify that students, not machines, have mastered the material.