Problem sets, short answer questions, multiple choice and group are other types of student works and there are different ways to assess them.
Grading Problem Sets, Short Answer Questions, and Multiple Choice
These types of tests are easier to grade than essays, but challenges can still arise. You may think you have written the perfect question with only one correct answer, but you must always be ready for other answers. In the case of multiple choice questions, for example, if students are doing worse than chance on a particular question, it is possible that the question was poorly worded. In this case you must either give credit for more than one answer or toss the question out (by giving everyone credit).
Grading Group Work
Spend a lot of time explaining, both verbally and in writing, the reason you are doing group work, what the academic (and other) goals and objectives of the group work are, and the reason it is important for the students. Acknowledge and discuss with students some of the problems with group work. You may want to consider whether you will grade the group work at all; it may make sense for group work to be ungraded.
Here are some strategies for grading and assessing group work:
- Use Homework As A Ticket Of Admission
Have students work individually outside of class on the group assignment (e.g., complete a worksheet, write and/or answer discussion questions) and to bring their individual work to class. This serves as their “ticket in” to the group work. Students with no ticket are not allowed to join in group work that day.
- Assign (Or Have Students Select) Group Roles For Each Student.
Roles can differ, but may include convener, scribe, presenter, etc.). Rotate these roles periodically. This helps maintain all students active in the group and motivats them to develop different skills.
- Specify The Grading Criteria
Specify in writing the grading criteria you’ll utilize, and discuss it with your students. Consider allowing students have some idea into these criteria before they are finalized. Student control increases the sense of ownership and responsibility the students will have for the group activities.
- Require A Division Of Labor Report
Reports can cover various topics, addressing how often they met, who was present, who did what parts of the group project or assignment, and son. This reminds the students who is and isn’t doing their share and gives you information to use when grading.
- Consider Peer Input When Assigning Grades
Identify what portion of the grade (say, 20 percent) is determined by peer ratings. Students can rate other group members on specific or global items. Students can rate other groups on presentations.
- Adjust Individual Grades According To Contributed Effort
You can utilize the division of labor report, peer ratings, and finished homework “tickets” to determine the individual grade portion.