Take Paul Barnwell’s “test” in this article from NEA Today. How do your answers compare? Did he miss any questions?
Here’s mine: What would happen if students suddenly all started receiving A grades or scoring in the ninetieth percentile on standardized tests?
a. We would realize that grading children in this way is both degrading, unethical and meaningless and redirect the millions of dollars and hours wasted on them to proven means and methods of improving learning
b. We would pay test-makers even more millions of dollars to develop harder tests in order to ensure the status quo so that good test takers remain at the top and receive recognition
c. We would understand that children are not assembly-line workers, teachers are not instructors, schools are not factories and that we need a society where all children are valued, can make a meaningful contribution and succeed
d. None or all of the above.
The only time my kids see a grade is on their report card because I am forced to put something in the blank. Gradeless classrooms can be a reality.