Grading & the Ultra Gradebook

The Ultra Gradebook helps faculty to streamline grading and assessment processes. It offers features such as customizable grading schemas, efficient grade entry and feedback provision, automatic performance calculations, and collaboration options. With its intuitive interface and comprehensive insights, faculty can manage grades, monitor student progress, and facilitate effective communication for a seamless grading experience.

Gradebook Basics

Before You Begin

Before configuring the overall grade and gradebook settings, we recommend starting with your course syllabus. Some things to carefully consider are: grading policy, use of a point or weighted grading system, types of assignments, etc.

NOTE: Gradebook calculations and Grading Schemas

The calculation schema displays grades as points, letters (A, B, C), or a percentage with the grading schema you choose for each assessment. The schema takes the points scored on an item and compares them with the item's total possible points to get a percentage. This percentage is mapped to a range of scores and displays a grade, such as a letter.

Example:

For the total grade, a student's raw numeric score is 88 out of 100 points possible. In a grading schema in which a percentage of 87 to less than 90 equals a B+, the student's score of 88 results in a B+.

At this time, regardless of the range of values you use in your schema, the grade pill colors and corresponding percentages don't change from the Ultra color scheme. Your correct grade appears, but the color matches the Ultra color scheme. However, your institution can disable the color scheme for all courses. Visit the Assign Grades topic to learn more.

Points or Weighted Grading

In a point-based system, each assignment holds equal weight, simplifying calculations and providing a straightforward evaluation. On the other hand, weighted grading allows you to assign different values to assignments based on their significance, reflecting the relative importance of each task. Select the grading method that suits your instructional needs, promotes fairness, and provides clarity for both you and your students. Just remember to choose either point-based or weighted grading, as combining both approaches can lead to complexity and confusion.

Points