Diagnostic Feedback without a Grade
Don't put a grade on an assignment; just provide descriptive feedback about where student is, where they need to be and how to get there.
Strategy Summary
Students often ignore descriptive feedback when it is attached to a grade. This simple strategy encourages students to focus on their learning process and growth rather than on just their performance, thus promoting a growth mindset.
How to
- Communicate in writing where students are, where they need to be, and how to close the gap.
- Do not give a grade.
- Students improve their work based on teacher’s comments rather than focusing on a grade.
Note: This works particularly well if you assign work that builds on itself over time, i.e., that involves revision.
Tags
Details
Grades: Any
Subjects: Math, English / Lit., Science, Social Studies, Other
Time of year: Anytime
Class period: Anytime