Standard Based Grading : 4 Pillars

Rae HughartBlog, Grade Better, Mastery Done Better

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 :

  1. = Beginning
  2. = Progressing
  3. = Mastery (Proficient) 
  4. = 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!