Changing Mindsets

For the past year, I have been considering moving to formative/summative grading. But what to include in each? 

Formative:  homework, check quizzes, writing drafts, monitoring progress through projects

Summative:  essays, tests, final projects

Can I include BEHAVIOR as a formative grade? 

How do I get rid of zeros? 

Or is this not my problem? Aren't zeros a reflection of students' choices? 

For example, if a student doesn't get ANYTHING correct on a quiz, a ZERO is an accurate reflection of that student's learning (or laziness?). 

But for kids who forget an assignment? Should they get a zero? SHould I accept late work? 

I'm willing to change my practices, but I need to do some more reflection about this, need to do more reading and discussing with colleagues. 

Module 1 Reflection

Where do you fall on the rubric?
What qualities of your entries were exceptional or effective?
Which qualities are still evolving or emerging?

Examination & analysis of key course concepts: 

I feel like I have been an Effective learner. I do not yet feel like I have obtained mastery in any way, but I am striving to be engaging and thoughtful.

Use of evidence and examples:

In this category, I may be Exceptional. I tend to openly share examples from my classroom; I am open about my "novice" experiences, but I hope that this honesty will encourage others to try and grow as well. 

Presentation of Ideas:

Exceptional -- As an English teacher, I know that I communicate effectively.

Collaboration w fellow learners:

At this point I will say I have been Effective. I know that I have Exceptional within me for the future, but I have only responded to one other student at this point. 

Overall, as a newbie to educational technology, I am looking forward to gaining confidence and skills as a teacher.

As a component of my online course, I have started a blog.  I look forward to reflecting on my learning this summer. Let's start this journey!