My students took some time today to discuss what the different letter grades mean to them in preparation for their determination of their own grades. I was absolutely captivated by what they thought and to me it once again speaks clearly as to why letter grades are not the solution to reporting progress. (Note: F's are not attainable in my class since I have yet to meet a kid that isn't learning something).
So an "A" means:
A "D" means:So an "A" means:
- A students understands completely
- Participates in the discussion
- Is enthusiastic about school
- Always gives best effort
- Shows lots of progress
- Understands almost everything
- And has a great attitude
- Understands concepts most of the time
- Fulfills most of the things to get an A but not all
- Has good effort but could do more
- Shows a little bit of progress
- Understands a lot and gives a great effort
- And has a good attitude
- Pays little attention
- Could try better
- Developing as a learner
- You are not trying your hardest
- Could use some improvement
- Average attitude
- Does not understand content
- Do not show their knowledge and strengths
- Needs to listen more to better understand
- Only understands a little
- Is not focused
- Needs a lot of help
- And works poorly by themselves
