Be Kind: Intro to Standards Based Grading

Finish this sentence

I believe that all students
___________________________________________________________________.
At ASU Preparatory Academy, we practice Be Kind by
Never giving up on our students
Never giving up on ourselves
Never giving up on our colleagues
One of the best ways we can demonstrate Never giving up on our students is
through the practice of Standards Based Grading.
Standards Based Grading: This is a philosophy and practice of grading that
focuses on helping students achieve mastery of curriculum standards. Because we
never give up on our students, they have multiple opportunities to demonstrate
growth throughout the school year. The feedback that we give electronically,
verbally, and written will help students and families clearly understand their
strengths and opportunities for improvement. Standards and learning outcomes
guide our instruction and assessments. Ultimately, students learn to self-assess
and own their own growth and achievement.
Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E7m4762pjH8 (3:21)

Standards Based Grading Inventory

4: Mastery- This has become a foundation of my classroom teaching. I have

mastered this concept to the extent I could lead professional development on this
practice.

3: Proficient- I understand this practice and use it regularly in my classroom.

2: Developing Proficiency: I understand the concept. I am using this practice in
my classroom but am still inconsistent.

1: Basic: I have a great opportunity for growth in this area.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------For each of the following Standards Based Grading practices, assess your own
mastery on the 4-3-2-1 scale described above.
_______
I create a classroom environment that demonstrates my belief that all
students are capable of mastery. I work to build this confidence within my
students.
_______
I design my lessons and assessments using learning outcomes based
on my curriculum standards.
_______
I utilize rubrics that encourage students to understand how they can
demonstrate mastery of the standards for assignments and assessments.
_______
I give meaningful, timely feedback to students and families that
encourages student growth.
_______
I maintain an up-to-date electronic Grade Book that communicates
Standards and Learning Outcomes (rather than traditional grading practices e.g.
Quiz #1).
_______
I develop assessments and rubrics with students to ensure student
buy-in and depth of understanding.
_______
I identify anchor papers or model work that guides students to selfassess on assessments.
_______
I design policies and procedures for allowing students to demonstrate
mastery at a later time.
_______
I individualize student learning plans to lead all students on a pathway
towards mastery.

_______
I collaborate with colleagues to create and/or refine common gradelevel or subject-area performance based assessments.