You assign the first essay due September 20. A student asks: 'Is this for a grade?' Another asks: 'How much does grammar count?' Another asks: 'Can I revise for a better grade?' You answer differently each time, and suddenly students have different understandings of your grading. Prevent this confusion by setting crystal-clear expectations about grading before you assign the first essay.

When students understand exactly what you value and how you'll measure it, they can direct their effort appropriately. When grading is mysterious, they waste energy on things that don't matter.

The Five Expectations to Set in September

Discuss these five things explicitly, in writing, before the first essay is graded:

• What grades measure: 'A B is strong work that shows mastery of the criteria on the rubric. A C is work that shows you understand the basics but need development. A D is work that shows effort but significant gaps. An F is work that isn't submitted or shows no understanding.'
• What revision means: 'You can revise any essay for a higher grade within one week of receiving it back. Here's the form you use to request revision.'
• How grammar affects grades: 'Grammar errors affect grades when they interfere with meaning. A few small errors don't affect your grade. Many errors that make your writing hard to understand do.'
• How I give feedback: 'You'll receive a score and written feedback within one week. Feedback focuses on what you're doing well and one thing to work on next.'
• What happens if you miss a deadline: 'Assignments are due by 3pm on the due date. If you miss the deadline, you can submit within one week for a reduced grade.'

Making Expectations Visible

Write these expectations in your syllabus. Display them on your wall. Reference them when assigning work. Make them so clear that students can't possibly misunderstand. When a student asks about grading later, you can point back to these established expectations.

Checking for Understanding

After you've set expectations, check for understanding. Ask students to explain your grading system in their own words. Have them identify which essay deserves which grade on a sample rubric. Don't assume they got it. Verify.