A school grading system is a standardized method used to evaluate and communicate a student's performance and mastery of course content. Grading systems can vary widely in their format, complexity, and the criteria they use to assess students.
You can utilize the School Grade Calculator to determine your grades according to various grading systems and criteria.
Types of School Grading System
Here’s an overview of some common types of grading systems used in schools:
Letter Grades
In the U.S., academic performance is typically measured using letter grades, ranging from A+ (highest) to F (lowest). The most common grades are A, B, C, D, and F, with variations such as A-, B+, etc. A D is generally the lowest passing grade, though some schools require a C to pass.
Numerical Grades
Grades can also be numerical, often converted to letter grades differently depending on the institution and subject.
Grade Point Average (GPA)
Letter grades are assigned numeric values to calculate a GPA. For instance, an A is 4.0, B is 3.0, C is 2.0, D is 1.0, and F is 0.0. Weighted GPAs may assign higher values to advanced courses, such as 5.0 for an A in an AP class.
To calculate your GPA, use the GPA Calculator based on the grading system in your school.
Percentage Grading
In this grading system, students are given a percentage score based on their performance. This 100-point scale assigns percentages to grades, with specific assignments (e.g., homework, quizzes, exams) weighted to calculate a final grade. For example, 50% homework, 20% quizzes, 20% final exam, 10% project.
Grade Conversion
Common percentage to GPA conversions:
Some schools have more detailed scales, e.g., an A+ (97–100%) = 4.0, A (93–96%) = 3.9, A- (90–92%) = 3.7, and so forth.
Specialized Grades
XF: Indicates failure due to academic dishonesty or withdrawal after the refund period.
W: Withdrawal before the deadline, not affecting GPA.
WP/WF: Withdrawal while passing/failing.
FN: Failure due to non-attendance.
Audit (X/V): Attending a course without receiving credit.
Some More Grading Systems
Here are some more non-conventional grading systems that might be used in some of the US schools' grading systems:
Standards-Based Grading
Students are graded on whether they exceed, meet, or fall below predetermined standards, without being compared to each other. This system aims to ensure all students meet essential skills and knowledge.
Rank-Based Grading (Curving)
Grades are distributed based on student rank, often used in competitive academic settings. This can lead to direct competition among students.
Alternative Grading Systems
Some of the alternative grading systems are:
Narrative Evaluations: Detailed written feedback instead of letter grades.
1-2-3-4 System: Used in some elementary schools, indicating proficiency levels.