Grading

All assignments will be given a numerical value. Assignments will be placed in one of five categories which added together make up the overall grade.

grading categories

writing grade

participation

(1) general assignments

25%

(2) tests & quizzes

25%

(3) writing

25%

(4) special projects

20%

(5) participation

5%

A WRITING GRADE will be determined by analyzing each student's writing portfolio. Each writing selection will be graded by analyzing the following six writing traits.

Ideas & Content

Subject matter. What the paper or essay is about.

Organization

The writing has order, is arranged logically.

Voice

The writing is expressive and engaging.

Word Choice

The writing is clear & concise, and the vocabulary used is appropriate for the intended audience.

Sentence Fluency

Sentence types vary and the writing is enjoyable and easy to read.

Conventions

(Mechanics) spelling, punctuation, margins, paragraph structure,and legibility.

I will also take the following into consideration:

Commitment

Is time used productively? Is peer editing used appropriately? Did student proofread before turning the paper in?

Risk-taking

Student is willing to try new styles, topics, forms, techniques, etc.

After the first quarter, part of the writing grade will be based on the student's effort to improve his or her writing skills.

5% of grade is based on participation in class activities, therefore it is important to be in class on a regular basis, and on time. The participation grade is based on the following:

  1. coming to class prepared
  2. citizenship
  3. attendance/tardies
  4. active participation in class activities

Percentages for letter grades (A, B, C etc.) are listed in the Student Handbook and are the same for all classes.

The use of video technology will be used as a way of assessing students' grades during the school year. For example, group presentations, speeches, panel discussions, class interaction, etc. may be video taped!
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