Ray Elder  »  Designer & Educator  »  @rayelder

Grading

I grade quality of outcome and learning not quantity, but quantity may improve both the outcome and increase learning.

Grading Process

I use two grading methods:

  1. Grading Rubric Method
    Used for studio projects requiring a points breakdown.
  2. Grading Adjectives Method
    Used for generic assignments (i.e. Portrait or Semester Backup), creative challenges or writing assignments.

Each generic assignment, creative challenge or writing assignment will clearly state which grading method will be used to assess student performance.

Grades are not based on effort. Grades reflect student understanding and application of specific principles or skills (i.e. Satisfactory understanding or application only merits a C grade). Review the grade scale above to appropriately adjust grade expectation.

Critique feedback is subjective and qualitative, but points are assigned for all coursework. Points, grades and attendance are accessed online via JupiterGrades.

Grading Rubric Method

How does it work?

At the beginning of each studio project a customized grading rubric (see sample grading rubric PDF) is provided and explained. Points are entered into specific categories as the project progresses. Upon completion of the project the total score is entered into JupiterGrades as points ranging from 0 to 100. The points breakdown is available but must be requested by the student via email. The Grading Rubric method strives to be as objective as possible but is heavily informed by my teaching and professional experience.

The UVU Graphic Design program is working towards a standardized grading rubric for all courses.

Sample Grading Rubric

Grading Rubric

Download Grading Rubric PDF

Grading Adjectives Method

How does it work?

An appropriate adjective (see grading adjective table below) is chosen to describe your performance. The adjective is entered into JupiterGrades as points ranging from 0 to 10. The Grading Adjectives method is subjective and purely based on my teaching and professional experience.

Adjective Points (10) Grade
Exemplary 10 A
Excellent 9 A-
Very Good 8.75 B+
Good 8.5 B
Fair 8 B-
Satisfactory 7.5 C
Minimum Passing 6.5 D
Unsatisfactory 5 E

Grade Scale  OpenClose

A 93% Exemplary
A- 90% Excellent
B+ 87% Very Good
B 83% Good
B- 80% Fair
C+ 77% Satisfactory
C 73%
C- 70%
D+ 67% Minimum Passing
D 63%
D- 60%
E < 60% Unsatisfactory
UW   Unofficial Withdrawal
I   Incomplete

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