One approach to grading concept maps is to use (and share with students) a rubric such as this one (PDF).
Another method of assessing concept maps, proposed by Novak and Gowin, is based on the components and structure of the map. This approach awards points for valid propositions (1 point each), levels of hierarchy (5 points for each level), number of branchings (1 point for each branch), crosslinks (10 points for each valid cross-link), and specific examples (1 point for each example). The number of hierarchical levels addresses the degree of "subsumption," the number of branches indicates the differentiation, and the number of cross-links indicates the extent to which the knowledge has been integrated.
Support
If you would like support applying these tips to your own teaching, CTE staff members are here to help. View the CTE Support page to find the most relevant staff member to contact.
This Creative Commons license lets others remix, tweak, and build upon our work non-commercially, as long as they credit us and indicate if changes were made. Use this citation format: Rubric for assessing concept maps. Centre for Teaching Excellence, University of Waterloo.