Dear Parents and Guardians:

 

This year in Grade 6 Mathematics we will be implementing a pilot project which uses an alternate form of grading and reporting student achievement. The grading and reporting system is based on curricular outcomes and descriptive feedback rather than percentages. The remainder of this letter will provide an explanation for this change in assessment.

 

As educators we are constantly asking ourselves if our teaching and assessment practices reflect what is best for students. There is a multitude of research and data that is helping us to answer that very question. Specifically – we have been looking at best practices involving reporting student achievement. We have found that traditional report cards and percentage grades do not help us to determine exactly where each student is struggling or improving. By looking at curricular outcomes and using descriptive feedback, we are better able to focus instruction (both at home and at school). We feel that this type of grading and reporting will help us to do just that. It allows us to look at student achievement based on personal growth and the curriculum – and not based on a comparison to others in the class.

 

Some of the benefits of this type of grading and reporting are:

-       Elimination of student competition and feelings of inadequacy among peers.

-       Identifies specific areas of strength and weakness in relation to the curricular outcomes.

-       Allows room for improvement and growth.

-       Allows each individual student to become an expert in their own areas of strength.

-       Fosters the attitude that learning and growth are more important than test results.

-       Allows students to enjoy learning, without test anxiety.

 

We ask that you take the time to read through the attached mastery scale and list of curricular outcomes. You will be able to use these documents throughout the year to track your child’s progress in math. If you have any questions regarding how your child will be assessed this year, please do not hesitate to call. We will be anxious to hear your feedback.

 

Thank you,

 

Michelle Miller

Ryan Blackmore

Joshua Sherwood