Understanding grades in middle school:

I use two catergories for middle school grading: Studio Habits (10 points)and 

Projects. (20 points includes assignments, sketchbook work, and quizzes.)

Projects and sketchbook grades are based on work completed incomplete work does not get full credit. I always give kids a a simple rubric format so they know what is expected. 

For instance, if we were doing a portrait, the grade could be based on the points listed below:

• • student included a full range of dark to light values    1 2 3 4 

  • student shows understanding of basic facial proportions    1 2 3 4

  • student used at least 3 different shading techniques like hatching, or circulism.   1 2 3 4 

  • The work shows quality of craft: there are few/no messy smudges, the portrait fills the space and shading was added with care and attention.  1 2 3 4

Incomplete work will not receive full credit. Students should plan to check in with me if they have missing assignments or have been out for multiple days and need help catching up.

Studio Habits grades are 10 point grades. These are the skills and behaviors that make for great creative thinkers:  Follows expectations, comes to class prepared, participates in class discussions, shares best thinking, demonstrates solid effort, helps with care and cleaning of materials and studio, collaboration and participation during group activities, focus on the task during work time