Standards-based grading is a mind-shift for traditional thinkers!
With this transition, educators must feel a strong base as they make daily decisions in the classroom. How do you do this well?
Make smart educational decisions secured by the 4 Key Pillars of Standard Based Grading.
Direct Correlation Between Specific Vocabulary and A Numeric Value
Most Standards-Based Grading scales utilize a 4 tiered system. Each numeric value is connected to a vocabulary term describing the student’s level of understanding :
- = Beginning
- = Progressing
- = Mastery (Proficient)
- = Above and Beyond Grade Level Expectation
The numeric values do not directly correlate to a percentage as a traditional score of an A, B, C, D, or F would. Rather, it is a shift in understanding what a grade means all together and the effectiveness of your feedback. What does the student know?
Targeted Instruction Built From Mandated Standards
All learning within a Standards-Based Grading model should be linked to a learning standard.
Standards may be required on a national level or state by state.
[scroll down to keep reading]Multiple Attempts to Prove Mastery
Standards-Based Grading requires both the teachers and students to recognize learning does not have a hard end date. Rather, students may need multiple attempts to understand a specific topic until a mastery understanding is found.
Therefore, the idea of “retakes” or providing students multiple attempts to prove their understanding is a necessity in the Standards-Based Grading Philosophy.
Focus on Understanding Rather Than task Completion
Standards-Based Grading classrooms utilize language and dialogue with the student around knowledge, rather than completing tasks.
Learning is not a checklist!
Therefore, assessments must assess a student’s level of understanding rather than nitpicking point values. Focus on the question: Has the student proven mastery on this topic? If not, what is missing?
Continue your exploration with more Standards-Based Grading posts!
- Standard Based Grading : Basics & Benefits
- Standard Based Grading : Understanding a Score
- Standard Based Grading : Combating Common Concerns
- Standard Based Grading : Reporting
- Standard Based Grading : First Steps (video)
- Standard Based Grading : Parent Communication (Coming Soon!)