Teaching & Learning » Standards Based Grading

Standards Based Grading

WHAT IS STANDARDS BASED GRADING?
 
Grades should accurately reflect student achievement and areas for growth. District 13 utilizes Standards Based Grading to provide feedback on how your child is performing on specific standards. This allows for a more precise view of what skills or standards children have mastered and which they still need to continue to work on. 
 
Traditional vs. Standards Grading
 

Standards-Based Grading (SBG) is an approach to assessing and reporting your child's progress in elementary school. Instead of traditional letter grades, SBG focuses on specific learning objectives or standards. Here's a brief overview:

  1. Clear Learning Targets: SBG breaks down the curriculum into clear, measurable learning objectives or standards. This helps both students and parents understand what is expected at each grade level.

  2. Frequent Assessment: Teachers assess your child's progress regularly and provide feedback on their mastery of each standard. This continuous assessment helps identify areas where your child excels and where they may need extra support.

  3. No A, B, C Grades: Instead of assigning letter grades, District 13 uses a scale "Meeting," "Approaching," and "Below." This provides a more accurate picture of your child's understanding of each standard.

  4. Individualized Learning: SBG allows for personalized learning. If your child struggles with a particular standard, the teacher can provide additional resources and support to help them succeed.

  5. Progress Reports: You'll receive progress reports that highlight your child's strengths and areas for improvement on each standard. This information empowers you to actively participate in your child's education and track their growth over time.

Incorporating Standards-Based Grading helps ensure a deeper understanding of subject matter and encourages a growth mindset, fostering a love for learning in your child.

 
Meeting The Student independently demonstrates the skills and knowledge to meet the grade level performance standard. A student performing at the meeting level is on track with high academic expectations.
Approaching
The Student partially demonstrates the skills and knowledge to approach the grade level performance standard. A student performing at the approaching level needs support, reinforcement, or more time to reach the meeting level.
Below
The Student has minimal understanding and has not yet met the grade-level expectations. A student performing at the below level needs additional support and/or interventions.