In this chapter we include two sample solution papers, with comments on how they might be graded, one using a checklist and one using a rubric. In the first case, this is an actual solution paper that one of the authors received, while the other is a fabricated paper that illustrates the type of project solutions that we are accustomed to receiving. In both cases the reader will note the changes that would change an adequate solution paper into a very good one. We have found that the papers we receive are, on the whole, of quite good quality—especially as students become familiar with this type of assignment, the fact that they put significant work into their final solution results in the average paper being quite good.

Solution Paper and Checklist—Annalisa Crannell

When I first started grading papers, I did it somewhat differently than I do now. I used to read through the papers much more thoroughly. This allowed me to change my checklist over the years to make the questions more consistent with what I actually wanted.

The sample student paper following is for the project “The Case of the Crushed Clown,” which is from my early years of grading projects—in fact, it is the third paper I assigned during my first semester at Franklin & Marshall College. In the description below, I explain how I would approach this paper if I received it in a class today.