What is Standards-Based Grading?
Standards-Based Grading (SBG) is an educational approach that focuses on measuring students’ proficiency on well-defined course objectives or standards. Unlike traditional grading systems that often combine various factors into a single grade, SBG separates academic performance from behaviors and provides a more detailed picture of student learning.
Key features of Standards-Based Grading include:
Clear Learning Objectives: Each course has specific, measurable learning goals or standards.
Multiple Opportunities: Students have several chances to demonstrate mastery of each standard.
Separation of Academic and Non-Academic Factors: Grades reflect only academic performance, not behavior or effort.
Detailed Feedback: Students receive specific information about their progress on each standard.
Emphasis on Mastery: The focus is on achieving proficiency rather than accumulating points.
No Averaging: Final grades represent overall mastery, not an average of all attempts.
Use of Rubrics: Clear criteria define levels of proficiency for each standard.
SBG often uses a 4-point scale (1-4) or descriptive categories (Beginning, Developing, Proficient, Advanced) instead of traditional letter grades or percentages.
Proponents argue that SBG provides a more accurate representation of student learning, promotes a growth mindset, and aligns better with educational standards. It can help identify specific areas where students need support or enrichment.
However, implementing SBG can be challenging, requiring significant changes in teaching, assessment, and reporting practices. It may also require educating parents and students about the new system.
Despite these challenges, many educators and schools are adopting SBG as part of a broader shift towards competency-based education and personalized learning.