Standards-based Grading
Standards-based Grading Informational Video
Sample Report Cards
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Standards-based Grading?
Standards-based grading is a system of assessment that focused on students' mastery of specific learning standards. It provides clear and detailed feedback on students' progress towards meeting those standards.
- What grade level and courses are moving to Standards-based Grading?
Currently, our reading and writing courses in grades Kindergarten through grade 5 are moving towards Standards-based Grading. We are hoping to expand to all K-5 subjects in the near future.
- Are there benefits to utilizing a Standards-based Grading approach?
Yes. The Standards-based Grading approach provides more clarity around areas of strengths and areas that need improvement, allowing for a more clear and concise understanding of areas to focus efforts on. Standards-based Grading can also improve the school/home partnership, allowing for increased communication between the school and the family by knowing specific areas to support students. Additionally, Standards-based Grading approaches education from a growth mindset, meaning that students when first exposed to new concepts or skills need time to learn those concepts and skills.
- Why use a 1-3 scale instead of traditional letter grades?
The 1-3 scale provides more specific feedback on student strengths and areas for improvement, helping to guide instruction and support student learning more effectively than traditional letter grades.
- How does the 1-3 scale work?
The 1-3 scale in standards-based grading represents the different levels of proficiency:
3: Proficient - The student consistently demonstrates understanding or skill in the area independently and meets grade-level expectations.
2: Developing - The student shows partial understanding or skill in the area and benefits from occasional guidance or additional practice.
1: Area of Concern - The student demonstrates minimal understanding or skill in the area and requires frequent, targeted intervention and support.
- How are students assessed in Standards-based Grading?
Students are assessed through various methods, including quizzes, tests, projects, and observations, all aligned with the learning standards.
- How can parents support their child in a Standards-based Grading system?
Parents can support their child by reviewing feedback from teachers on written assignments, helping with homework, encouraging practice and study at home, and communicating with teachers about their child's progress.
- How often are students assessed in Standards-based Grading?
Students will be assessed regularly throughout the school year to monitor their progress and growth. Report cards will continue to be sent home at the end of each marking period. Our dedicated and professional staff will contact parents of students with major concerns throughout the marking period.
- How is behavior and effort reflected in Standards-based Grading?
Standards-based Grading separates academic achievement from behavior and effort. While behavior and effort are important, they are reported separately to give a clear picture of students' academic progress.
- Can students improve their scores over time?
Yes! That is one of the benefits of Standards-based Grading. As a student masters the skill, the 1 or 2 becomes a 3! This idea, commonly referred to as the growth mindset, it foundational to this practice.
- How does Standards-based Grading affect report cards?
Report cards have been updated in the reading and writing sections to reflect the actually standards that your student will be assessed on. You will have new report cards. You can see a sample for each grade level above.
- What if my child receives a score of 1?
If your child receives a score of 1, it indicates an area of concern. Within our school system, we have interventions and support built in to help your student master that standard. Your student will also have multiple opportunities to practice and be re-assessed to improve their one.
- How does Standards-based Grading prepare students for future academic success?
Standards-based grading helps students develop a deeper understanding of the material, encourages a growth mindset, and provides clear goals for improvement, all of which will contribute to future academic success.
- How does Standards-based Grading address different learning styles and paces?
Standards-based Grading allows teachers to tailor instruction to meet the diverse needs of students, providing opportunities for all students to demonstrate their understanding in various ways and at their own pace.
- How are group projects graded in Standards-based Grading?
In Standards-based Grading group projects, students will be assessed on their individual mastery of the content.
- How can I help my child set goals in a Standards-based Grading system?
Parents can help their child set goals by reviewing the standards together, identifying areas for improvement, and creating a plan for practice and study. Regularly discussing progress and celebrating achievement can also help motivate students.
- How does Standards-based Grading handle late or missing assignments?
In Standards-based Grading, the focus is on students' mastery of the standards. Teachers may provide opportunities for student to complete late or missing assignments to demonstrate their understanding, rather than penalizing them with lower grades.