Transcript [pdf]

SHOW NOTES

Key Takeaways

• Inclusive grading is possible at every level—from pre-K to college—and benefits all learners.
• Grading should not be used to document a student’s disability but rather to assess access, effort, and understanding.
• 32 practical grading solutions can help educators make assessments more fair, accurate, and comprehensive.
• The IEP is your guide: Grading should align with IEP goals, ensuring students are assessed on their progress, not just grade-level standards.
• Modified grading is legal under IDEA but must be individualized—not a separate system for students with disabilities.

Episode Download/Handout

Ready to rethink grading? This free download isn’t just a list—it’s your roadmap to making assessments fairer, clearer, and more meaningful for every student. You’ll walk away with actionable solutions you can use right away. Download the 32 Inclusive Grading Solutions at inclusiveschooling.com/download40. 

Inside, you'll find:

• 32 actionable grading strategies (e.g., grade product and process separately, use flexible deadlines, and allow choice in assignments)​
• Legal FAQs about grading modifications for students with disabilities
• Guiding questions to help IEP teams connect grading with general education curriculum 
• Sample IEP goals for students with complex support needs​

Highlights from the Handout

• Julie’s Favorite: Grade product and process separately– reward effort and steps taken, not just the final result
• Kristie’s Favorite: Allow choice in assignments– give students options to demonstrate their knowledge in ways that best suit them​

Practical Tips

1️. Base Grades on Individual Progress

• Measure how much a student has improved relative to their starting point, rather than where they land on grade-level standards​.

2️. Use Checklists to Track Mastery

• Create simple checklists that document mastery of essential skills, making it easy to monitor and celebrate growth.

3️. Implement Flexible Deadlines

• Offer students extra time when needed to focus on mastery rather than speed. Learning shouldn’t be a race​.

4️. Incorporate Multiple Ways to Demonstrate Knowledge

• Let students show understanding through presentations, drawings, written work, or even acting out concepts​.

Related Resources

• Napoleon Schmoleon- What is the GOAL?: This video from Dr. Shelley Moore builds on the concept of Backwards Design and the importance of knowing the curricular goals when we are planning.
• Unlearning Grading: This blog from Dr. Jen Newton discusses her journey in moving away from traditional grading practices, emphasizing student involvement, trust-building, and the importance of teaching self and peer assessment to foster a more inclusive and effective learning environment.