Grading for Biology & Labs?

[Handmaiden]

I could really use some help in figuring out grading for Biology next year. It seems there are so many ways to grade and different systems for assigning points. :confused:

 

How do you weigh:

Chapter questions

Quizzes

Exams

Labs

Lab Reports

Finals

(Anything else? Essays?)

 

How do you grade hands on vs. virtual labs?

 

Do you offer projects for extra credit?

 

Fwiw, we'll be using Miller/Levine's Biology text.

 

TIA!!

[Handmaiden]

:lurk5:

[Pam L in Mid Tenn]

For most subjects I use the same grading system and weight each element equally.

 

1. I give a percentage grade for completing the textbook. If the book is 90% completed then that portion of the final grade is a 90. I require 75%to 80% as a minimum.

 

2. I average papers written or labs in science.

 

3. I average vocab quizzes and other "smaller" written assignments.

 

4. I average test grades.

 

Those 4 elements are then averaged for the final grade.

 

For one subject my 17yog was also assigned to read/review 10 library books and watch 10 documentaries. I'll give her a percentage grade based on how many she actually DID. So far, she has done 10 books and 5 videos.... so her grade stands at 75% today with plenty of time left to get a 100. :)

 

There are many, many, many ways to average a grade.

 

And with biology.... the vocab is so extensive.... I think I only averaged vocab tests and some 'labeling' exercises for the final grade.

[Pam in MA]

I think the main thing is to think about what your goals and priorities for the class are. Set your grading percentages based on what you think is important before you start the school year. Assuming you're starting high school, it's a good idea to have a plan of action the class and what components make up the grade. Then stick to it as you go through the year. BTW, we're just finishing up Biology with Miller/Levine and it's pretty difficult to cover the entire book in any kind of depth, so again, pick and choose before you start. HTH!

[Handmaiden]

Thanks, Pam & Pam! :001_smile: