How to Grade for Learning, K-12

′After using these concepts and procedures for the past four years, I would recommend O′Connor′s approach to all teachers who believe that grades should clearly communicate actual student learning. For educators who want to make grades more meaningful and useful to students, parents, and teachers, this is the book to read′―Forrest Clark, Math Teacher , Nisqually Middle School, Lacey, WA

′O′Connor not only provides readers with valuable information regarding the theory, context, and purpose of grading, he also includes practical strategies and solutions for classroom implementation′―Patricia Schenck, Academic Program Coordinator, Educator Preparation , Gulf Coast Community College

Academic assessment methods should help students grow and develop to their full potential. Many educators would agree, however, that traditional grading practices are incompatible with today′s standards-based systems.

This third edition of the best-selling How to Grade for Learning demonstrates how to improve grading practices by linking grades with standards and establishing policies that better reflect student achievement. Ken O′Connor updates his eight guidelines for good grading, explains the purpose and key elements of each guideline, and offers recommendations for practical applications. The book examines a number of additional grading issues, including grade point average calculation and the use of computer grading programmes. This thoroughly revised edition includes:

- A greater emphasis on standards-based grading practices

- Updated research and additions to the sections on feedback and homework

- New sections on academic dishonesty, extra credit, and bonus points

- Additional information on utilizing level scores rather than percentages

- Reflective exercises

- Techniques for managing grading time more efficiently

An invaluable tool to help individual teachers assign grades that are accurate, meaningful, and supportive of learning, this book also makes an ideal staff development resource.