Roland Park Elementary/Middle School
Brief Constructed Response (BCR) Scoring Rubric
Adapted from MSDE “MSA Reading BCR Rubric Grades 3 through 8 and 10”
Score
Description
3
 The response demonstrates an understanding of the complexities of the text.

A= Answers the question by fully addressing the demands of the question. Response addresses all components of the question and stays on topic.

C= Cites the text effectively by using text-relevant information through paraphrasing or quoting the text.

E= Extends or clarifies the question by going beyond the literal text; uses vocabulary not in the text to summarize relevant thoughts; includes own relevant information in the response; demonstrates higher-order thinking and analysis.
2
 The response demonstrates a general understanding of the text.

A= Answers the question by fully addressing the demands of the question.

C= Cites the text effectively by using text-relevant information through paraphrasing or quoting the text.
1
 The response demonstrates a minimal understanding of the text.
  • Minimally addresses the demands of the question. The response may be well-written but it does not answer all components of the question.

  • Uses minimal information to show some understanding of the text in relation to the question (e.g. only refers to the page and paragraph number rather than explaining text or uses incorrect text support).
0
 The response is completely incorrect or irrelevant to the question.
  • The response may be well-written but it does not answer the question.
Strategies to successfully answer the BCR:
  1. Read the question thoroughly
  2. Identify the three parts of the question: The question, the follow-up, the cue to support answer with information from the text.
  3. Underline “anchor” words within the question. Anchor words tell how to answer the question. Examples of “anchor” words and phrases are: compare, contrast, explain why, explain how, justify, summarize, describe how, explain whether or not you agree, predict how, analyze author's purpose, describe main idea, compare characters or poems.
  4. Look in the text to find the information to answer all parts of the question.
  5. Use a simple web to brainstorm possible answers.
  6. Think of how to extend and clarify the response.
  7. Write the response. It is helpful to rephrase the question at the beginning of the response to help you to focus on answering the question and staying on topic. It may help to use the anchor words used in the question as you rephrase it.
  8. Be sure to write enough to completely address the question (ACE). You may write two lines of text within the lines (spaces within the lines are wide enough); You can completely fill the box. You may write in the space below the lines as long as your response stays within the box. More writing that extends or clarifies your answer increases your chances of scoring higher.
  9. Read your answer. Add relevant words or phrases to extend or clarify meaning.