An Introduction to Standards-Based Grading

This workshop is designed to support educators as they transition from traditional grading to standards-based grading (SBG). It begins by defining and discussing the principles of SBG and highlighting its benefits, such as clearer communication of student progress and an increased focus on learning over compliance. Participants examine the key components of SBG, review practical examples, and explore strategies for implementation in real classrooms. The workshop concludes with collaborative planning for next steps, ensuring participants leave with actionable strategies to begin or strengthen their school’s journey toward SBG.

• Traditional grading systems that often emphasize completion, behavior, or extra credit rather than mastery of standards.
  
  
• Inconsistent communication of student progress to families and students.
  
  
• Difficulty for educators in implementing fair, clear, and learning-focused grading practices.

1. Understanding the Principles and Benefits of SBG
   Participants will gain clarity on the philosophy and purpose of standards-based grading, including how it shifts the focus from compliance to genuine mastery of learning objectives.
   
   
2. Implementing Key Components of SBG
   Educators will explore practical strategies such as defining measurable learning objectives, creating effective grading scales, emphasizing formative assessments, and providing specific feedback that promotes growth.
   
   
3. Planning for Action and Overcoming Challenges
   Participants will leave with strategies to address common challenges in implementing SBG and will collaborate on actionable next steps, ensuring they can take meaningful progress toward transforming grading practices in their schools.

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