To design fair grading policies that reflect growth and mastery, teachers should

• A. Use multiple measures, clear criteria, transparent rubrics, and separate process from product where appropriate
• B. Rely on a single test score
• C. Penalize late work harshly
• D. Exclude feedback

Answer: (A)

Designing fair grading policies that reflect growth and mastery relies on using multiple measures of learning, with criteria that are clear and rubrics that are transparent. This approach captures progress over time and recognizes different ways students demonstrate understanding, not just a single moment in a test. By combining quizzes, performances, projects, drafts, and observations, you get a fuller picture of what a student knows and can do. Clear criteria tell students exactly what counts as success, and rubrics translate those expectations into specific levels, making grading fair and predictable. Keeping the focus on the learning process as well as the final product helps students receive actionable feedback about strategies, revisions, and effort, promoting genuine growth while still acknowledging mastery.

Relying on a single test score provides only a narrow snapshot and can miss changes in learning across tasks or over time. Harsh penalties for late work can create barriers to learning and equity. Excluding feedback removes essential guidance students need to improve and understand their progress.