In standards-based grading, what is the primary purpose of grading student work?

• A. Rank students against each other
• B. Judge proficiency against defined targets
• C. Report state scores
• D. Provide extra credit opportunities

Answer: (B)

In standards-based grading, the focus is on whether a student has demonstrated the specific skills and knowledge outlined in clear learning targets. The primary purpose is to judge proficiency against those defined targets, using rubrics or criteria that describe levels of mastery. This approach makes the grade a precise signal of what the student can do and what still needs work, rather than a comparison to peers. Ranking students against each other doesn’t align with this goal, and state scores or external accountability measures operate on different purposes. Extra credit points also don’t reflect mastery of the defined targets. So, the best fit is judging proficiency against defined targets.