From The Archives: Specifications Grading - E107

This week, we are chatting all about specifications (or specs) grading. This is an alternative grading strategy that focuses on mastery of learning by defining specific requirements for what students need to meet. If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content! And consider supporting the show by buying us a coffee or two!We would love to hear from you – leave a comment on our website OR check out our FLIPGRID!Featured Content**For detailed show notes, please visit our website at https://edugals.com/107**Specifications (specs) grading works well with mastery-based learningCreate specifications for what students need to demonstrate masteryDivide up the course into small modules and each module is passed by scoring 80% (mastery) or betterFinal grades are determined by how many of these modules are masteredOne possible way to do this is to create essential outcomes (absolutely must pass) and general outcomes (grade modifiers)Example - IB Chemistry Year 1 grade conversion chartStudents need multiple opportunities to master the outcomes - create multiple versions (think larger mastery check) for each outcomeEach week, students can attempt outcomesStudents appreciate this model - focus on learning, less stressLinda Nilson - Specifications Grading BookPopular in post-secondary, not sure who else is doing this K-12?Benefits - students are not getting left behind, experiencing success, working hardGeneral outcomes - can become your focus of the final exam for one extra attempt!Tokens - can trade them in for handing in an assignment late, getting another attempt, etcSharing with colleagues - some curiosity and some pushbackPractice for standardized tests - can happen outside of this and doesn't need to be high stakesWebinar on Specs Grading in ChemistryLabs are also included - passing each lab will have specific requirementsAnother benefit - giving a test back is way less stressful and no grade grubbing! Tests are seen as learning opportunitiesCan be used in any course area (works well with single point rubrics too)Support the Show.Connect with EduGals: Twitter @EduGals Rachel @dr_r_johnson Katie @KatieAttwell EduGals Website Support the show