Ten Things That Matter from Assessment to Grading

Ten Things that Matter from Assessment to Grading outlines the big ideas of assessment so teachers can prioritize where to refine their practice. Structured in standalone, quick-read chapters, its flexible approach lets readers choose the material that matters most to them. Chapters tackle concepts such as descriptive feedback, differentiated instruction, student ownership and grading accuracy. Classroom examples and teacher accounts are included in each chapter to help illustrate how to translate research to practice. Tips, guided questions, and next steps encourage readers to get started on their own path to fair and balanced assessment and grading.    

Tom Schimmer is an independent education author and consultant from Penticton, BC (Canada). His current work focuses on the effective use of formative assessment as an integral part of the instructional process, accurate and fair grading and reporting, as well as educational leadership. Tom is an internationally recognized leader and expert who has delivered both keynote and workshop sessions at major conferences as well as for schools and/or school districts in Canada, the United States, and Asia. Prior to working as an author and consultant, Tom spent twenty years as an educator. As a classroom teacher he’s taught a variety of subjects in every grade from 6-12. He has been a school administrator in five different schools (3 high schools and 2 middle schools) and most recently was a district-level leader primarily responsible for curriculum and instruction. Tom holds a Teaching Degree from Boise State University (1990) and a Master’s Degree (Curriculum & Instruction) from the University of British Columbia (1999).