SBL Glossary of Terms

Standards-Based Learning (SBL) - Standards Based Learning is an equity-based instructional framework that promotes consistency, clarity, and accuracy in how SDUSD provides high-quality educational experiences and supports students in moving toward grade level standards.

Standards-Based Grading (SBG) - The determination and reporting of mastery level during a reporting period on assessed Critical Concepts (knowledge and skills) using a Proficiency Scale and a Grading Scale.

Critical Concept - Critical Concepts are strategically grouped and prioritized standards by content area that establish a uniform, minimum expectation for end of course objectives that encompass both knowledge and competencies.

Rubric - An assessment tool developed for evaluating performance on a specific product, project, or task.

Proficiency Scale - A framework developed for a broad conceptual understanding of a Critical Concept. Each Critical Concept has a Proficiency Scale that helps to clearly define grade level standard and to show what progress looks like as students move towards the learning target. A Proficiency Scale is a tool that shows students and families the learning goals -- specifically, the grade level target (Level 3) and the pathway for mastery of a single concept or skill (i.e., Critical Concept).

Grading Scale/Conversion Scale - A grading scale is used to translate Proficiency Scale scores to grades during required reporting periods.

Mounting Evidence - A best practice in standards-based learning is to prioritize more recent evidence when translating scores to grades. Students are not expected to be at grade-level standard when they first start practicing a new skill or concept. Over time, however, student evidence should show growth toward proficiency. Prioritizing more recent evidence doesn't penalize students for initial attempts, but honors and celebrates their growth toward proficiency by the end of a reporting term.