A Platte County R-3 School District
student’s grade
is based on learning. Our secondary grading system
is designed to provide
consistent, accurate feedback
and/or measure of what a child knows,
aligned to our Principles of Learning.
What is the purpose of grading?
Our purpose for grading in the Platte County
School District is to indicate an accurate measure
and provide meaningful feedback relative to a
student’s progress.
Glossary of Grading Terms
- Grading Practice: Providing feedback and in
some cases, applying a measurement to indicate
progress of a learning objective(s) and/or skill(s).
- Assessment: The process of documenting,
usually in measurable terms, knowledge and/
or skills related to a learning objective(s). An
assessment may or may not be a test.
- Grade Reporting: The distribution of a grade
that indicates progress of one or several learning
objective(s) and/or skills over a specified time
period.
- Learning: The knowledge and/or skill(s) that a
student has gained.
- Secondary: Grades 6-12, middle and high
school levels
How do we grade?
Ninety-five percent of a reported grade is based on
authentic assessment; five percent of the reported
grade is based on practice.
What is authentic assessment?
An authentic assessment is evidence of the
progress of a student’s learning; it does not have
to be a test. Most evidence should be collected
while at school, so that it is a true reflection of that
student’s progress.
Some examples of authentic assessments could
include:
- Tests
- Projects and presentations
- Journal entries
- Lab assignments
- Research assignments
- Writing pieces
- Quick check, small group work, and
independent work during class
What is practice?
Practice can be traditional homework, work
completed with a partner, and/or work completed
with the support of an adult.
Principles of Learning
Frequently Asked
Questions
Why did we improve the grading system?
The Platte County School District improved its
grading practices to increase consistency in all
secondary classrooms. Grades will be weighted
the same in every secondary class using the
95/5 percent formula in the District.
Is extra credit accepted?
The Platte County School District does not
endorse extra credit to improve a grade. We do
endorse extra practice to improve student learning.
What if my child is a bad test taker?
Authentic assessment can include more than just
a traditional test. Students will be given various
assessment methods to provide evidence of
the progress of that student’s learning. Even if a
student is a bad test taker, the student will be given
various opportunities to show what they know.
Why should kids do the practice if it is only 5%?
Practice helps prepare students for an
assessment. Practice also provides teachers
with feedback regarding what individual
students are struggling with or mastering. This
allows them to target specific standards and
skills for the class as a whole, as well as for
individual students.
How are grades reflected in Parent Portal?
A student’s final grade will reflect the 95/5
percent formula in Parent Portal. To view the
type of assignment (assessment or practice),
click on “Gradebook” then “Assignment.” The
“Assignment” will reflect the type.