How to Set Up an Effort Based Grading a.k.a Competency Based Grading in openSIS

How to Set Up an Effort Grade System

Setting up an effort grading system can provide a valuable way to assess and motivate students by focusing on their work ethic and engagement. This article will guide you through the step-by-step process of configuring an effort grade system in your school's grade management software.

Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up Effort Grades

Step 1: Access the Settings Menu

To begin setting up effort grades:

  • Navigate to the Settings from the main navigation menu in your school management system.
  • Once in the settings menu, locate the Grades header.

Step 2: Select "Efforts Based Grades"

  • Under the Grades section, choose the Efforts Based Grades option.
  • This will lead you to the interface where you can configure your effort grade system.

Step 3: Define Effort Grade Scale

  • Click on the Efforts Grade Scale tab to define the scale on which students will be graded based on effort.
  • To add a new scale, click the Add New Effort Grade Scale button.
  • A form will appear where you can fill in the grade value (e.g., A, B, C or 1-4) and a description (e.g., Excellent Effort, Satisfactory Effort).


Step 4: Configure the Effort Grade Library

After setting the grade scale, you need to configure the criteria by which students will be assessed.

  • Navigate to the Effort Grade Library tab. This section allows you to create categories and items that will define specific effort-based evaluations.

Step 5: Create Effort Grade Categories

Effort categories represent broader areas under which specific effort items will be grouped, such as Class Participation or Homework Completion.

  • Click on the Add Effort Category button to create a new category.
  • Enter the Category Name (e.g., "Class Engagement" or "Homework Dedication") and click Submit.

Step 6: Add Effort Items

Effort items are specific criteria within each category, representing how students will be graded.

  • Once your category is created, click the Add New Item button to add an effort item.
  • You will be prompted to provide the Item Title (e.g., "Timely Homework Submission" or "Active Class Discussion") and click Submit.


Managing Effort Grades

Editing Effort Grades or Items

If you need to adjust any existing grades or effort items:

  • To edit an effort grade scale, click the pencil icon next to the grade you want to modify.
  • To edit an effort category, click the three dots next to the category name and select Edit Item.
  • For editing effort items, use the pencil icon next to the specific item within the category.

Deleting Effort Grades or Items

In case you need to remove any scale, category, or item:

  • To delete an effort grade scale or item, click the trash icon next to it.
  • To delete an effort category, click on the three dots next to the category name and select Delete Item.

By following these steps, you can effectively set up an effort grading system that helps track and reward student effort in various aspects of their academic experience. This system not only encourages a strong work ethic but also provides students and teachers with clear criteria for evaluating engagement and effort.


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