When it comes to grading, there are seemingly two camps: those who believe in a strict grading policy, and those who believe in a more formative approach. However, as educators and parents increasingly turn to assessment to inform instruction, it is important to consider the potential benefits of a compromise between the two approaches.
Formative assessment is a type of assessment that helps educators and parents better understand student achievement. Rather than simply grading a student’s final product, formative assessment encourages educators to use the process of assessment to guide and support learning.
One of the biggest benefits of formative assessment is that it can help educators better assess student mastery of concepts. Rather than simply grading a student on their final product, formative assessment asks educators to observe and provide feedback on how the student is progressing through the material. This feedback helps students understand where they need to improve and helps them learn more effectively.
Another advantage of formative assessment is that it can help educators better assess students’ mastery of critical thinking skills. Rather than simply grading a student on their final product, formative assessment asks educators to ask probing questions and requires students to demonstrate their understanding. This type of assessment helps students develop critical thinking skills and helps them become better problem solvers.
Overall, a compromise between a strict grading policy and formative assessment can be a beneficial way to address the grading debate. By using formative assessment to help educators better assess student mastery of concepts and skills, students can become better learners overall.
