Why do we use Standards Based Grading?
Our mission at Pardeeville Middle School is to "foster lifelong learning in a positive, supportive environment where all learners achieve and succeed." Research shows that standards based grading as a basis of communication helps student learn more effectively through better feedback. Habits such as mindset, organization, timeliness and respect are reported separately from academics. At PMS, we report these as "Life Skills."
What are learning standards?
Learning (academic) standards are concise, written descriptions of what students are expected to know and be able to do at a specific stage of their education. Educators break standards down into learning targets, which are communicated with students on a daily basis. Teachers can assess what kind of progress students are making toward learning targets in order to adjust instruction. Academic standards can be found on the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction website.
What role does homework play in a standards based system?
Homework is practice. Practice is extremely important and valuable as it prepares an individual for performance. Athletes spend hours preparing for performance. Tradesmen and women spend years practicing before taking a journeyman or master exam. Professionals spend years practicing before taking medical boards, bar exams or other exams for license requirement. Each student needs practice, although how much practice varies from student to student.
How are students graded in a standards based system?
Students receive grades of 4-3-2-1 in our standards based system. Grading rubrics tell more about the meaning behind each number. For each learning target, a teacher determines a student's level of proficiency based on practice and assessments the student has completed. Student grades are reported at the end of each trimester.
How is student success celebrated at PMS?
Students who earn all "Meets Expectations" on the Life Skills rubric are honored with a certificate at the end of each trimester. Students who earn all 3s and 4s in all classes (no 2s, 1s or 0s in any class during the current trimester) are awarded "Principal's List" distinction. Students who earn all 3s and 4s in three core classes are on the "High Honor Roll" and students who earn all 3s and 4s in two core classes are on the "Honor Roll." Honor Roll lists are posted the week after the end each trimester.
