2 Steps to Achieve Best-Practice Audio Grading
Audio format: Upload audio files in a supported format and keep them under the maximum file size.
Assignment instructions: Provide clear instructions and attach a rubric that reflects exactly what students are being assessed on.
1. Audio Format
CoGrader supports grading audio files in the following formats:
MP3
WAV
M4A
MP4 (audio)
FLAC
OGG
WebM
Maximum file size: 15 MB
If your audio file exceeds 15 MB, compress the file or shorten the recording before uploading.
Uploading Audio Files
There are two ways to upload audio files into CoGrader.
Option 1: Add Audio Files from an Assignment
Open your assignment and click Add Submissions, then select Add audio files.
Option 2: Upload Your Audio Files
After selecting Add audio files, you can:
Drag and drop your audio files
Upload from your device
Import from Google Drive
Upload from your camera (if supported)
2. Assignment Instructions
For the best grading results, provide clear instructions describing what students were expected to demonstrate in their recording.
Keep your instructions focused on what should be graded, not how students should submit the assignment.
Examples
Good Assignment Instructions
Record a 3–5-minute speech explaining the causes and effects of climate change. Support your ideas with evidence, organize your response logically, and conclude with a summary of your main points.
Why is it good?
It clearly tells CoGrader:
What students should discuss
What skills are being evaluated
What a successful response should include
Poor Assignment Instructions
Record your speech.
Save it as an MP3.
Upload it to Google Classroom.
Click Submit before Friday.
Include your name.
Why is it not ideal?
These instructions describe how to submit the assignment, not what CoGrader should evaluate.
Removing submission steps helps CoGrader focus on grading the student's performance.
Use a Rubric
For the most accurate grading, attach a rubric that clearly defines the evaluation criteria.
Audio assignments often assess:
Speaking clarity
Organization
Content accuracy
Evidence and reasoning
Fluency or pronunciation (when appropriate)
Delivery and presentation
Whether you use one of CoGrader's built-in rubrics or create your own, clear grading criteria lead to more consistent feedback.
Best Practices
For the best audio grading experience:
Keep audio files under 15 MB
Use one audio file per student submission
Write clear assignment instructions focused on learning objectives
Attach a detailed rubric
Ensure recordings are clear with minimal background noise
Upload using Add Submissions → Add audio files, or drag and drop your files into the upload window
Following these recommendations helps CoGrader generate more accurate scores and meaningful feedback for student audio submissions.