To account for time, I initialed service sheets within 24 hours of the time the work was done to establish validity. Assuming that the folder is kept up to date, a student, parent, administrator or adviser can determine at any time exactly what grade the student would earn if the grade were given then, exactly where the student falls short and what the student needs to do in the time remaining to meet grade requirements. Grading is simple - a matter of matching the evidence of work accomplished with the points claimed and entering it in the grade book at the end of the marking period. There is no one perfect answer to the grading conundrum. There are simply too many publishing situations.
Any point system has to be adapted to the unique situation.
Some advisers have found the portfolio system most helpful, with the portfolio documenting the student's efforts, followed by a critical review by the student, a student editor and the adviser. The key is in finding a system that is as objective as possible in a totally subjective environment so that the adviser can make valid and defensible distinctions between those who are doing outstanding work and those who are just getting by, if that. I would be happy to take questions or perhaps share the grade sheet used to support the system above. Please address them to Carol Lange .