Assessment in Modern Languages
Students are assessed on their language performance using a standards-based rubric. Each course has a performance target aligned with the ACTFL Proficiency Guidelines.
Explanation of Grading
Rubrics:
In all modern language courses, we grade with standards-based rubrics designed to assess students on language proficiency and skill.
Standards-Based Grading and Term Weights:
In order to move students through the proficiency continuum from Novice to Advanced, students must retain and build upon their language they have learned and acquired. For this reason, simple averaging of grades over the course of the year is not an accurate measurement of student learning and growth.
As an illustration, consider the following sets of grades:
STUDENT 1: A (at the end of the first quarter), C (at the midyear), F (at the end of year)
STUDENT 2: F (at the end of the first quarter), C (at the midyear), A (at the end of year)
The averages in both cases would be about a C, yet it is obvious that Student 1 is penalized for such averaging, when if fact she or he has actually mastered the material by the end of the year. Student 1 has poor control. Progressive grading is standards-based, emphasizing the most recent assessment. Student 1 would receive a grade below C and Student 2 would receive a grade above C. This system is not only fairer, but also aligns well with our efforts to teach students to embrace a growth mindset.
High School Term weights are as follows:
Term 1: 12%
Term 2: 19%
Term 3: 26%
Term 4: 31%
Final Performance Assessment: 12%
HIGH SCHOOL WORLD LANGUAGES GRADING SCALE
| A+ | 98% | STRONG: Student’s learning shows in-depth inferences and applications for the targeted performance.
The student can independently create a spoken or written message using above-level language. |
| A | 94.5% | |
| A- | 91% | |
| B+ | 88% | MEETS STANDARD: Student’s learning meets the targeted performance.
The student can independently create a spoken or written message using level appropriate language. |
| B | 84.5% | |
| B- | 81% | |
| C+ | 78% | DEVELOPING: Student’s learning shows the simpler aspects of the targeted performance, or has some important errors or omissions.
The student can independently create a spoken or written message using some level and some non-level appropriate language. |
| C | 74.5% | |
| C- | 71% | |
| D+ | 68% | EMERGING: Student’s learning demonstrates only partial ability or is incomplete.
The student can independently create a spoken or written message using non-level appropriate language. |
| D | 64.5% | |
| D- | 61% | |
| F | 59% | Not enough evidence to measure student learning. |
Questions regarding these policies may be directed to the Department Head.