Prairie Grove District 46 has implemented new homework and grading guidelines in an attempt to streamline policy and increase student learning.
The overhaul comes after significant increases in homework referrals for missing or incomplete assignments, according to district officials. A district-wide investigation also revealed multiple grading methods within each grade level and throughout classrooms.
“It varied across the board,” said Vic Wight, principal at Prairie Grove Junior High School. “Teachers were not on the same page, and we were concerned about performance in the classroom.”
The changes took effect during the third quarter, which began Jan. 23. They focus on individual percentages for tests, quizzes, homework assignments and in-class work that are then totaled for an overall grade.
Tests and quizzes now account for 60 percent of a classroom grade — 40 percent for tests and 20 percent for quizzes. Students who receive a C, D or F on any test will also be allowed to retake the test.
“It’s making students responsible for learning and allowing them to relearn materials,” Wight said.
The rest of in-class work, such as projects and labs, account for 30 percent.
The biggest changes come in the way homework is weighed. After varying across the board, all homework assignments will now be worth 10 percent of the overall grade. Students who previously received a zero or incomplete on unfinished homework will now have the opportunity to complete those assignments and receive up to 10 percent less points than what the assignment was worth.
“Homework is meant to be practice,” Wight said. “You can make errors without reflecting on what you are truly going to know. It makes students more accountable.”
The unified grading system streamlines guidelines for both parents and teachers.
“The research is clear — effective grading practices provide specific and timely feedback to immediately improve student performance,” Superintendent Lynette Zimmer said. “When all teachers consistently apply effective grading practices, our students and their parents know what to expect.”
District 46 consists of separate elementary and junior high schools. The changes include all grade levels throughout the district.
To view a tutorial on the new guidelines, go to www.dist46.org.
