Going Gradeless: A Book Study Reflection

Teach Better TeamBlog, Grade Better, Lesson Plan Better, Mastery Done Better, Reflect Better

TL;DR: This post includes reflections on a book study of Going Gradeless: Shifting the Focus to Student Learning by Elise Burns and David Frangiosa. This book provided insights about how you can shift the focus from grades to student learning! Each member of the book study shares their biggest takeaways from the book. This past month I had the pleasure … Read More

Focus on the Focus Blog Series Overview

Kari PitstickBlog, Grade Better, Mastery Done Better

Focus on the Focus Blog Series Overview The Focus on the Focus Blog Series offers grading, assessment, and feedback support for educators! Learn more about purposeful student conferencing and refocusing your assessments with student understanding in mind. In addition, get simple tips to improve your grading practices! Posts in the Series Student Conferencing with a Focus on the Focus (Video Blog) … Read More

Focus on Improving Your Grading Practices

Andrea KalchbennerBlog, Grade Better, Mastery Done Better

TL;DR: Focus on improving your grading practices by cutting the fluff, grading what matters, eradicating participation and completion points, and allowing redos. Avoid taking points off for late work. Use formative assessments to guide student progress and include students in the assessment process. Have you ever had a parent ask you why their child is passing your class but failing … Read More

Refocus Your Assessment: Grading and Feedback for Understanding

Teach Better TeamBlog, Grade Better, Mastery Done Better

TL;DR: It is time to refocus your assessment and consider grading and feedback for understanding. Make sure students know what the learning goal is and what they are working toward. Ensure feedback is specific, useful, and given in a timely manner. Consider the following feedback structure: Where are you in your proficiency? Why are you there? What are your next … Read More

Tips & Tricks Blog Series Overview

Kari PitstickBlog, Connect Better, Differentiate Better, Grade Better, Lead Better, Lesson Plan Better, Mastery Done Better, Teach Happier

Tips & Tricks Blog Series Overview The COVID-19 / Coronavirus Pandemic has changed so much about how we live our lives, socialize, and especially how we run our schools and classrooms. As we begin the next school year, things are different – but we can be better. As you continue to navigate the details for next school year, we need … Read More