Grading and Assessments
Methods used for assigning grades for ProTeam students vary across the state. Some use a basic plan as follows:
v 50% is given for participation in class activities, observations and discussions;
v 25% is earned through grades given to journal writing and special projects; and
v 25% is given to formal and informal teacher-made tests. Some others include point systems or teacher-made
tests based on curriculum content.
The method described above can work, but we would like to offer some more suggestions.
Minor assessments are included with each activity and a major assessment for each module. We suggest that you
incorporate these assessments when determining grades for your students.
Specific suggestions for you to try out in your classes follow. Some of these are proven methods, but all will need
refinement by you to be workable in your particular situation. Choose from these methods or devise one of your
own.
Contract Grading
(Adapted from Wilson High School's Teacher Cadet Program's Contract Created by Linda Payne)
For an A:
2 major assignments
3 minor assignments
For a B:
2 major assignments
2 minor assignments
For a C:
1 major assignment
1 minor assignment
For a D:
1 major assignment
The contract method of grading can be used alone or in combination with other types of assessment. Each student
should write out a contract indicating the grade s/he wants to work toward during the semester or the year. Planned
“Project Days” should be scheduled at the beginning of the course so students will know when they can present to
the class. Any contract not met should receive a grade of F. No ProTeam student should contract for less than a B.
The contract will allow students to be involved in activities that you may not be able to do in class due to time
constraints. Since many of our activities are done in small groups, assignments may be done this way as well.
Design your own contract. As a project is presented, check it off against the contract. Keeping careful records will
be helpful at grading time. Also, require top quality work. (You might need to provide examples to model what
top quality work is.) If a project does not meet your standard of excellence, give it back with a designated period of
time allowed to make improvements.
Here are some major and minor assignment suggestions to get you started. You will think of many, many more.
Major Assignments
1. Interview the guidance counselor of the high school about what you and your peers should do to be
successful in high school.
2.
Interview one of the following and write a one-page summary of what you learn from the interview.
PROTEAM DREAMQUEST CURRICULUM
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