I've just finished calculating the grades for this first semester. As tutors, these are suggested grades for you as homeschooling families to consider.
Before I send them, let me share my thoughts on grades. As I homeschooled, I didn't give my children grades. I felt that grades were far too subjective. I taught my own children for mastery. We didn't proceed with a topic until they were ready no matter how long that took.
Letter grades are a funny thing. For some students, it becomes the only motivation for doing well. For some, it becomes a measure of their worth as a person or as an academic learner. I personally don't like these "side effects" of the grading system. On the other hand, grades can be a valid reward for working hard, being diligent, and understanding the materials.
When teaching students to be good writers, I give a lot of consideration for growth and improvement. Each student has a starting place; over time I look for him or her to learn the mechanics of grammar, good writing techniques, and analytical thinking skills.
For this class, I gave points for attendance, participation, short assignments and longer papers. I also offered a few extra credit opportunities. I tend to be an "easy grader" and like to see my students encouraged to do their best.
Each student (and parents) will get an e-mail with percentages and suggested grades for this semester.
Blessings,
Tammy Prichard
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