The Classical Liberal Arts Academy (CLAA) uses a mastery-based grading system that emphasizes accuracy, clarity, and genuine student engagement. Quizzes and exams are graded automatically in Moodle, while written assignments are evaluated separately by the Academy headmaster according to fixed, objective criteria. The goal is to ensure that grades reflect true mastery of the material—not completion alone.
1. Quizzes
- Quizzes are administered at the end of most lessons.
- They are graded automatically by the Moodle system.
- Students receive immediate scores and can review their results.
- A minimum passing score of 90% is required to demonstrate mastery.
- If the student does not meet this standard, they may review the lesson and retake the quiz.
- Quiz scores are recorded automatically in the Moodle course gradebook.
2. Exams
- Exams are given at key points in a course, often at the end of major sections or at course completion.
- They are graded automatically, with higher difficulty and broader coverage than quizzes.
- The same mastery standard applies: students must score at least 90%.
- Scores are recorded in the Moodle gradebook and contribute to the final course grade.
3. Written Assignments
Written assessments are graded manually by the CLAA grading team or by Mr. Michael. Each assignment is evaluated using a 100-point rubric, with 10 points assigned to each of the following 10 criteria:
CRITERIA
1. Assignment questions included before answers
2. All questions answered
3. All answers written in complete sentences
4. Formatting is clear, consistent, and helpful
5. All words spelled and capitalized correctly
6. Punctuation used correctly
7. Answers supported with lesson content
8. Answers true and reasonable
9. Answers clear and easy to understand
10. Answers honestly written
Each criterion receives a score from 0–10 points. A perfect score is 100 points. A minimum score of 90 is required to pass the assignment. If the assignment does not meet this standard, it may be revised and resubmitted for re-evaluation.
Example:
A student submits a written lesson assessment with:
- Clear formatting
- Complete and well-organized answers
- Correct spelling, punctuation, and grammar
- Thorough engagement with the lesson content
Such a submission would receive a 100/100 score, with positive feedback encouraging the student to maintain that level of excellence.
4. Feedback
Each graded written assignment includes specific written comments on each criterion. This feedback:
- Explains the strengths and weaknesses of the submission
- Identifies areas for improvement
- Helps students understand exactly how their work is evaluated
5. Retakes and Revisions
- Students may retake quizzes and exams as needed to meet mastery standards.
- Written assignments may be revised and resubmitted after feedback.
- This process encourages true learning rather than settling for low scores.
6. Gradebook Records
All quiz, exam, and assignment scores are recorded in the Moodle gradebook:
- Students and parents can view scores at any time
- The gradebook shows individual scores, averages, and overall course progress
- Written feedback is attached to graded assignments for reference
Summary
- Quizzes and exams are automatically graded and require 90% to pass.
- Written assignments are graded manually using a 10-criterion, 100-point rubric.
- Feedback is given for each criterion to support student growth.
- Students may revise and resubmit work to meet mastery standards.
- All grades and feedback are stored in the Moodle gradebook for easy tracking.