Types of Grading Systems

There are different types of acceptable grading systems around the world. They are classified into seven types:

1. Grading Percentage– from 0 to 100 percent 
2. Letter Grading and Variations – from A grade to F grade 
3. Standard-referenced Grading– typically comparing students to each other with letter grades 
4. Mastery Grading – Students are rated as ‘masters’ or ‘passers’ until their accomplishment reaches a defined level. 
5. Common Scale– Pass/Fail 
6. Rating of Expectations (or grading of absolute standards) – Comparing student success with a pre-established performance level of quality
7. Narrative Grading – Writing feedback on learners

Grading Systems (by country)

Grading Systems (by country)

Qualities of a Good Grading System

The following are a few qualities that can help us determine which grading systems can be considered as ‘good’.

• A good grading system clearly and accurately communicates results to students, parents, and teachers.
• Like in any other field of living, a good grading system ensures consistency and fairness in the assessment of learning.
• Fairness can only be implied when the system recognises which students need special attention or cannot cope up with their studies.
• A good grading system measures academic progress and achievement separately from character traits, and behaviors, so that parents and teachers can accurately determine the difference between learning needs and behavioral needs.
• A good grading system doesn’t demotivate students, instead helps them understand their aptitude and excel academically as well as in life.