What Is The Meaning of a Grade?

Author

Michael Meechin
May 28, 2024

Hi.

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Deep Dive 🤿

What Is The Meaning of a Grade?

As I wrap up my dissertation on grading and assessment practices, a topic that has been at the forefront of my mind, I'm eager to share some of my insights with you.

I have been passionate about grades for a while… and with good reason.

Grades impact every student in every school. 

I mean, we know it’s important work, right? But what are school leaders doing about it? What can school leaders do about it?

“Grades should reflect what students know and can do, not how well they comply with the rules” (Edutopia, 2023). It’s a simple statement but one that can be far more complicated when you break it down.

However, this work is important. I would argue that it is critical that school leaders examine grading practices in their schools and districts. “Standardizing grading policies across a district can reduce disparities and ensure that all students are assessed on a level playing field” (Education Week, 2023).

So, in your school or district - what is the meaning of a grade?

Here are six questions that you can ask in your schools and districts that help to build the conversation around this question.

What balance should we strike between formative (ongoing) and summative (final) assessments?

Think about how you can bring more opportunities for students to assess formatively - and without a grade attached - to provide feedback. I get the pushback “if I don’t grade it, they won’t do it” often. In fact, I have heard it a million times.

Here’s the deal. When you provide feedback for students on formative work that they can use to improve their performance on a summative assessment, they will do the work, and it’s like a cheat code. 🕹️

How can we incorporate multiple measures of student learning beyond traditional tests and quizzes?

Think about using project-based or performance assessments to let students demonstrate their learning. I have always coached teachers to use oral assessments. You will be shocked at what you can learn in a small group conversation with students. Use this formative assessment to provide feedback on their thinking and clarify possible errors.

Have students take notes on the conversation and use this feedback to build their learning.

How can we involve students in the grading process to promote self-assessment and goal-setting?

When you involve students in their own learning, you can achieve buy-in for the importance of assessment and feedback. Have students set goals throughout an academic quarter and reflect on their learning as you take assessments. Student can use these reflections to build upon their learning.

What kind of professional learning do teachers need to implement new grading practices effectively?

Teachers may be scared to try new strategies. Everyone brings their own perspective to the conversation, and for most of us, that means a traditional 100-point scale full of quizzes and tests.

What supports are you providing in the professional learning around grading and assessments? You need a goal for your professional learning to hit the target. 🎯

How can we effectively communicate grading changes to students, parents, and the broader school community?

If you are going to change things up, communicate. Stakeholders need to know how things work regarding grading and assessments. You also need to ensure that you go slowly and communicate effectively. Any reform efforts are always difficult, so don’t give up, but plan carefully before you make changes.

It is okay to take baby steps - but take them.

What potential challenges might we face during the implementation of grading reform, and how can we address them?

Anticipate resistance. Grading and assessment practices strike emotion for all stakeholders. Most of us have been conditioned on the same system of grading that has been in place for well over 100 years. Change is difficult.

However, that is not a reason not to take action to improve practice. Do not back down; be brave and support your teachers and students as you make shifts in grading and assessment. 💪🏼

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As you head into the summer months and plan your strategy for next year, keep grading and assessment front and center. Ask these questions in your schools and districts. This will deepen your learning with your students.

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