As we near the end of the year, we start thinking about the end of year assessments and the final report cards. Such grades have often been a source of angst for teachers and parents alike. According to author Susan M. Brookhart in the book Classroom Assessment Essentials, regardless of whether a traditional system (i.e. A, B, C, D, or F) or a standards based system is used, two objectives must be satisfied:
- Grades must accurately reflect student academic achievement. Anything related to conduct or non-content related behaviors and actions can be reported in some fashion somewhere, but those things should not be reported in the content grade. This is an ongoing challenge for teachers. We like to bump the grade up a little bit when Billy turns his work in on time or doesn’t disrupt the class. Those things are important, but they don’t truly reflect whether or not Billy knows the content. Work diligently to ensure content grades clearly represent student understanding and mastery of academic content.
- Grades must be reported to students and parents in ways that are understood. Regardless of the reporting system, students and parents need to clearly understand the academic achievement being reported. Simple letter grades may require additional supporting information to most accurately portray student learning. A standards based reporting system may require simplification in its language to ensure everyone understands. A report that is not understandable does little to inform about current performance levels and opportunities for growth.
As you prepare for the week (and weeks) ahead, be thinking of how your grading and reporting system might be improved to allow for greater clarity. You and your students will be glad you did!
Phil Harrison Coaching 