Thank you for expressing so eloquently something I've been thinking/arguing for years. I'm a high school math teacher and I struggle with our traditional grading system every year. Lately I have been trying to express to my colleagues my gripe with grading in this one-and-done approach and how unfair it is to students who simply need more time to deepen their understanding of functions or proofs or (insert any major math concept here). It always feels so unjust and definitive. I also feel like a complete hypocrite when I tell my students that 'Grades do not define you', and then turn around and do exactly that.
This school year I'm taking a step in the right direction by implementing rich feedback, reflection, revision and retake in my classes. I anticipate some pushback from many teachers, parents, even students who are more used to traditional grading. But someone needs to start making waves. So why not let it be me?
Awesome Nicole! You're in just the right place, physically and mentally, to be taking these steps.
What's funny/frustrating sometimes on David's and my end as college instructors is that so much of the pushback and resistance from the K12 world comes from folks who want to stick with traditional methods because they're convinced this is how it's done 100% of the time in college! I wish more of those folks would just talk to me to find out what's up.
Thank you for expressing so eloquently something I've been thinking/arguing for years. I'm a high school math teacher and I struggle with our traditional grading system every year. Lately I have been trying to express to my colleagues my gripe with grading in this one-and-done approach and how unfair it is to students who simply need more time to deepen their understanding of functions or proofs or (insert any major math concept here). It always feels so unjust and definitive. I also feel like a complete hypocrite when I tell my students that 'Grades do not define you', and then turn around and do exactly that.
This school year I'm taking a step in the right direction by implementing rich feedback, reflection, revision and retake in my classes. I anticipate some pushback from many teachers, parents, even students who are more used to traditional grading. But someone needs to start making waves. So why not let it be me?
Wish me luck!
Thanks, Nicole! I'm glad to hear that you're doing this important work. Let us know how it goes!
Awesome Nicole! You're in just the right place, physically and mentally, to be taking these steps.
What's funny/frustrating sometimes on David's and my end as college instructors is that so much of the pushback and resistance from the K12 world comes from folks who want to stick with traditional methods because they're convinced this is how it's done 100% of the time in college! I wish more of those folks would just talk to me to find out what's up.