Claudia Heinrich | 2012/12/08

I think it is important to keep a paper copy of grades. It is too easy to post a wrong number in the computer. I print out a grade sheet and record the grades on paper first, that way they are all in alphabetical order when I transfer to the computer. It also helps me to track work for students that are absent, I indicate that on my paper grade report. I implemented the practice of entering a zero for assignments when a student is absent and then go back and change it to a grade when they complete the assignment. Often seeing the zero in the gradebook is a reminder to students that they must complete and turn in the assignment. Another thing I do is that when I circulate through the class and check in homework I only write down a grade for the students that get less than full credit. Since most students complete their work this minimizes the time I spend writing down number. An empty space on my record indicates that the assignment has been completed. When I enter the grades into the computer I use the fill feature to fill in the column with the score and then go through and change the scores that were reduced. Also if I make a mistake in recording grades the mistake is always in favor of the student.

Julie Woodard | 2012/12/08

You are no longer a name, but a number.

Rosemary Bruckner | 2012/12/08

I have second grade students, and when it's time to collect papers, I have them line up in alphabetical order. They know the order so well by now that I can randomly choose a "name stick" (tongue depressor with the child's name on it) and they can still line up in alphabetical order with that child as the new "first" student. It gives them an opportunity to stretch their legs, too, especially after a test.

Kathy Day | 2012/12/06

We have been doing this for several years. The students' numbers correspond to their book number that we use to return lost books. EVERYTHING has this number on it, from books and papers to permission slips for field trips and the envelopes in which we send their papers home for parents to see. Makes life SO much easier!