Cathy Vatterott

Standards-based grading is a huge leap for most teachers. This book, though short, did a good job of introducing the idea by weaving history and educational theory into one narrative. Dr. Vatterott's discussion of grades as measuring tools (and for punitive measures) helps to set the stage for the changes she advocates later in the book.

The second half of the book is dedicated to simple how-to steps...things teachers can do to begin to shift toward SBG. She discusses the challenges of what show more to grade (or not grade) and why. The book finishes with some good samples and discussion of small steps to take in order to implement the ideas. It's a good first read if you're interested in the basic idea before diving in. show less

Standard-based grading is one of the buzzwords permeating education these days; however, unlike the surfeit of fads, author Cathy Vatterott makes a good case for the advantages of standard-based grading. Rethinking Grading: Meaningful Assessment for Standards-Based Learning is a stripped-down introduction to standard-based grading — no padding, no esoterica, taking the reader from the whys and wherefores of the system to how to bring your school on board to how to obtain buy-in from show more students, colleagues administrators, and parents. At barely over 100 pages, it’s definitely worth your time. show less