iRubric: Mock Trial Rubric --- Defendant, Witnesses, and Experts

Has mastered the his or her part in the story. Knows all facts about his or her character and testifies to those facts in court. No use of notes or affidavits.

Knows most of his/her story well. No more than once does the attorney, on direct or cross examination, require him/her to read from the affidavit or notes.

Is not well-prepared. Get the idea, but testifies to facts beyond the character's affidavit and in doing so commits perjury.

Evidence would suggest that the witness or defendant barely prepared at all for trial. Very unclear on his/her role and the details of his part.

Student is constantly engaged in the class activity. Student does not need reminders to stay on task. No cell phone present.

Student is often engaged in the activities. Student could participate more in class activity, but is never causing a distraction. Caught one time with a phone/device.

Student is often engaged in the activity. Student needs a reminder to get back on task and can be distracting to teacher and classmates. Frequently on his/her phone.

Student is not involved with the class activity. Student needs constant reminders to get back on task. Student is distracting to the class as a whole. Phone does not seem to leave the student's hand.

Maintains eye contact with judge, lawyers, and/or jury throughout the entire trial.

Usually maintains eye contact with judge, lawyers, and/or jury - but may stray from time-to-time.

Frequently looking about, not making eye contact with court personnel.

Tends to stare at the floor or back wall. Rarely makes eye contact with any court personnel.