On Your Mark: Challenging the Conventions of Grading and Reporting, July/2014

2014 Foreword Book of the Year Finalist

Create and sustain a learning environment where students thrive and stakeholders are accurately informed of student progress. Clarify the purpose of grades, craft a vision statement aligned with this purpose, and discover research-based strategies to implement effective grading and reporting practices. Identify policies and practices that render grading inaccurate, and understand the role grades play in students future success and opportunities.

1. Question traditional grading and reporting practices, and seek more accurate practices.
2. Identify the purpose of grading, and ensure school and classroom visions, practices, and policies support it.
3. Implement research-based grading and reporting practices that promote accurate, useful accounts of student learning.
4. Understand why traditional practices, such as grading on the curve and offering plus or minus grades, dont fully report student academic performance.
5. Examine grading and reporting policies, and make sure they support students, parents, and other stakeholders.

About The Author:

Thomas R. Guskey, PhD, is professor of educational psychology in the College of Education at the University of Kentucky. He previously served as director of research and development for Chicago Public Schools.