The system of awarding grades in the New South Wales curriculum is open and balanced. It is based on a scale that runs from A to E. Teachers make objective and impartial decisions on the achievements and progress of students and award the grades accordingly.
How It Works
The grade awarded describes the student’s scholastic ability and the progress made in understanding the subject in question. Grade A is the highest grade awarded to students who have done exceptionally well while grade E is given to those who have only a poor knowledge and understanding of the subject. It is important to note that while these grades form the basis of evaluation, other factors such as the teachers’ comments about the student, interviews between the parents, student and teacher and inputs derived from other communication channels also play a part in determining the overall progress and achievement of the student.
What the Grades Mean
- Grade A: The student has a strong, extensive and detailed understanding of the subject and is able to apply this knowledge in a practical and result-oriented manner. Additionally, the student has developed skills that can be applied in new situations and circumstances.
- Grade B: The student has a thorough understanding of the subject matter and is able to use this knowledge in a competent manner. The student is able to apply the knowledge in many, but perhaps not all, relevant situations.
- Grade C: The student has a good grasp of the main concepts of the subject and is able to use the knowledge in a competent manner. The ability to apply the knowledge constructively is adequate but may be limited in some areas.
- Grade D: The student has only basic knowledge and understanding of the subject. The ability to translate this knowledge into skill to apply it effectively is limited as is the level of competency.
- Grade E: The student has only a very elementary knowledge of the subject matter and the ability to translate the knowledge into practical applications, skills and processes is very limited.