In 2024, the University of Portsmouth moved to the use of a categorical marking scale for assessing student work.
What is Categorical Marking?
Categorical Marking is a method of assessing work, which associates each classification with a percentage score, and a description. Rather than using the full 0-100 percentage points, in most cases, each classification has a high, mid and low point, ending in 2, 5 and 8. For example, a 2:1 is as follows:
- 68% = Very good 2:1
- 65% = Clear 2:1
- 62% = Just about a 2:1
2:1 Descriptor
- Learning Outcome: Meets all the intended learning outcomes and exceeds the threshold expectations for this level in several of them.
- Assessment Criteria: Complete with no important omissions.
You can view the full Categorical Marking scale on page 24 of the Assessment Regulations document.
Note: the Categorical Marking scale is applied at the assignment level, so the overall mark for a module with more than one assignment could still allow scores outside these 2,5,8..
Why have we moved to Categorical Marking?
Categorical Marking is a way to ensure consistency and fairness across markers, assignments modules and courses. In many cases, it should also improve efficiency in marking as less time will be spent deliberating between single percentage points. It also has benefits to students’ understanding of their grades.
Should we use Categorical Marking for all assessments?
Categorical Marking is expected to be used for all assessments where possible. However, there will be some assessments (for example multiple choice exams or assessments with mathematical calculations) where knowledge is assessed as an accumulation of discrete points. In these cases where the categorical marking scale cannot be applied, the assessment will be considered exempt, and can be marked as usual.
Categorical Marking can also be used alongside existing rubrics. For example, if the rubric mark is calculated as 70%, then the marker should use their knowledge of the submission and the criteria to determine which mark to award (68% or 72%).
I missed the Categorical Marking training sessions!
No problem - we recorded a version of the session so you can still watch the Categorical Marking overview video here.
What will happen with assessments where the mark has been capped?
Where a mark is capped at the pass threshold, which is 40 at present for both undergraduate and postgraduate assessments, SITS will automatically assign 40. Note: from September 2025, the pass threshold for Masters programmes will be 50%.
Can I apply my own Categorical Marking scale?
No, the University is adopting a single scale for use across the whole University.
Do I need to change my existing rubrics to match the Categorical Marking scale?
For this year (2024/25), existing assignment rubrics can be used. However, over time, individual rubrics will need to be updated to ensure they align with the Categorical Marking scale.
What communications have students received about this?
Returning students for September 2024 have been informed of this change in communications from Marketing welcoming them back to University after the summer. There is also a student guide to categorical marking on the following MyPort page: Understanding your results | Student Services - University of Portsmouth
Where can I learn more?
Contact the CADI team on cadi@port.ac.uk if you would like to find out more or have any specific questions relating to your own assessments.