Standards Based Grading

Definition:
A manner of grading/marking/scoring that
focuses specifically on what students know,
understand, and are able to do in relation to
learning targets or standards at a given
moment in time.
The learning environment is driven by
learning, feedback, and well-unpacked
standards rather than grades or
compliance.

Examples:

Using a four point scale to score

summative assessments

Assessments are FOR (formative) or

OF (summative) learning

Separating academic achievement

from process (behaviors) and growth
Formative and summative
assessments are directly and
transparently linked to standards
Reassessment when formative work
proves proficiency levels have
improved

Characteristics:

Criterion referenced

Evidence based

Academic achievement contributes

solely to the grade

Shortened scale

Feedback and success motivate

students intrinsically

Learning focused

Collaboration is valued over

competition

Non-examples:

Averaging

Percentage grades

Using grades as compensation or

punishment

Mixing achievement with process

and growth to determine the grade

Group grades

Extra credit

Zeros