I have graded the notebook in class with students and explained the standards based format used on the rubric that categorizes different entries based on the types of process each entry required.
Here is are active link, from the very top level of the website, that is regularly displayed in the class that is used as the rubric - entitled Notebook TOC.
LASS7 Core Current to date: HERE ;
Trimester Two through 12/12/17 HERE (grade in LA7 and SS7 categories)
Period 4 class - SS7 only:
Current grade based on: Trimester 2 through 12/12/17 Notebook Entries: HERE (grade in SS7 categories)
SS7 only HERE
Students not only were given a print out of the rubric/checklist, but were given plenty of time in class the week these were peer graded to submit any other entries that may have been completed on loose binder paper.
After student peer graded each other notebooks, I verified each rubric carefully for any mistakes and errors. In several cases, I regraded a number of student notebooks personally from scratch, due to peer student errors.
Please examine the checklist carefully - each entry follows the rubric and the weekly calendars. Some entries are homework, some are started from in class activities.
Each entry was classified as follows:
R - Reading Response - read an informational handout, and either answer 1 - 2 questions OR give a 5 point summary. Most of these are worth 5 points, a couple are worth 10 points since they were 2 pages long. Students report HW completion time on these about 15 - 20 minutes for a 5 point assignment; 20 - 30 minutes for a 10 point.
P - Performance/Observation - watch a video and respond. listen to a presentation/watch a film clip. Take notes or answer 1 - 2 questions. similar time frame for 5 and 10 point assignments in this category.
G - Graphics - draw a sketch of a map from an in class activity. 10 points.
T - Critical Thinking - make connections from a reading with other points started from an in class activity - compare and contrast, respond to an argument. 5 points - 2 entries.
Each of these categories total raw scores for points earned for each entry were divided by 2 and these scores were entered in the grade book as standards based grading.
The Notebook was also give a grade of 15 points - based on completing directions, organization, legibility, and creativity. Since all four academic classes rely on notebooks, it is essential that each student master the use of the notebook - in its various forms as used in Math, Science, Language Arts, and Social Studies. The notebook entries are very linear and follow the calendars and assignments of each class. They are concrete, in that adding one entry after each new entry, is very simple to understand. Students can easily examine the table of contents and check their own work to see if they have completed each entry. It is a very simple system. Students are required to manage their notebook and make up missing assignments.
Lower grades in most of these categories reflect not completing various entries - all are listed on the website. Students that miss assignments or do not complete assignments in class MUST rely on the website for directions, readings, and required links in order to complete assignments. Use of the website is absolutely essential - and is regularly displayed in class as the assignments are discussed. The website’s nickname is OXYGEN, and without students cannot succeed in the class.
Over the past two week, I have accepted missing entries from students and have adjusted their grades for any missing assignments. Most students have found these missing assignments in their folders. Many assignments were stamped in class the day it was due. These stamps indicate the assignment was due on time, and any “missing” entries with stamps were accepted on time without penalty. I sat down with at least 15 students to verify and fix any missing entries that work was submitted. I invite each student to do the same. If an assignment is missing, then it is essential that a student complete missing entries, then credit will be provided.
- Mr. Eliott Rodgers
