Equitable Grading: From Punitive System to Rewarding Growth

Equitable Grading

What if grades actually motivated students to keep learning?

This course explores strategies for implementing equitable grading practices in language instruction, focusing on rewarding student growth rather than penalizing differences in proficiency. Participants will examine diagnostic assessments, backward design principles, and proficiency-based evaluations to create grading systems that reflect meaningful language acquisition. The course also integrates technology and performance-based assessments to support individualized learning trajectories.

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Honoring Dr. Cynthia Martin

About our instructor

Martin Cindy

Dr. Cindy Martin, Associate Professor of Russian at the University of Maryland and the content developer of this course, was a pillar of the language teaching profession and a cherished member of the ACTFL community.A highly respected expert, Cindy served as a Certified ACTFL OPI and ILR OPI Tester, a Certified WPT and OPIc Rater, and an ACTFL project consultant, workshop facilitator, and certification mentor for decades. Her contributions were instrumental in shaping many of ACTFL’s most critical projects and publications, including the ACTFL Proficiency Guidelines.The ACTFL community deeply mourns her passing and honors her enduring legacy. We dedicate this course to her memory, celebrating her lifelong commitment to empowering educators and fostering language learning for all.