Effective Grading Practices That Empower Learning

Erik YoungmanBlog, Grade Better

TL;DR: Evaluate grading practices. Reflect on the use of assessments, feedback, and grades. Make changes to foster a growth mindset in students. Effective grading recommendations made by Thomas Guskey, Rick Wormeli, and Ken O’Connor are ingrained in my beliefs about effective learning and grading practices. However, educators can review grading recommendations through the lens of the impact on students’ growth … Read More

The Power of Reflection and Connection to Assessments

Vernon WrightBlog, Grade Better, Reflect Better

TL;DR: Assessment is a time for students to reflect on what has been shared with them. Assessments can take all shapes and forms. Ultimately, what we want is for students to share their thoughts and understandings. Continue to reflect and assess your own life and challenge yourself to meet goals. It was a great honor to have been a guest … Read More

Grades, Feedback, and Assessments

Kristen KoppersBlog, Grade Better, Personalize Student Learning Better, Reflect Better

TL;DR: The focus in school is frequently on the grades received rather than the skills obtained. Feedback and the improvement of skills should be valued more. We all need to work together to create this change. In 2015, I attended the “What Great Educators Do Differently” conference with my colleague in education and best friend. I attended a session by … Read More

Designing Assessments According to Learning Styles

Sanam EdwardsBlog, Differentiate Better, Lesson Plan Better, Personalize Student Learning Better

TL;DR: Assessments should be conveyed in various forms appropriate for each student. Getting to know your students is imperative before beginning to design assessments. Designing Assessments According to Learning Styles We are witnessing an age of radical education where teachers are collectively raising their voices to advocate for our students’ benefit. They cry out for transformation, hungry for more autonomy … Read More