Do I REALLY need to Grade Everything?

One thing I have been trying to do more of this year is have my students write four beat patterns in General Music. Last year, I realized a little too late that my students had no idea how to actually write them out. I created a summative assignment that had students write their own four measure rhythm without ever having them practice it in class. In hindsight, it was a huge mistake on my part. I knew that this year I wanted my students to have ample opportunities to practice this, but didn't want to have to grade more assignments. Grading is already so time consuming, and I never have enough time on my preps to get it all done already. But then I realized I don't have to grade every single thing my students do. What if I just don't grade the practice work?

Don't get me wrong, we need to put grades in the grade book. In our current school climate, we associate grades with feedback as to how a student is doing (which is a topic I can rant about another day). But if I put every small five to ten minute activity I do with students in the grade book, I would never have time for anything else. My students get feedback either way, and I don't have to stress about making sure to get as much in the grade book in a timely manner.

The photos below are examples of the Beat Sheets my General Music students did as one of their stations. It took me less than 10 minutes to go through and give all of my students feedback that was tailored to their work. I was able to gauge their current level of understanding without losing a large chink of time. As I continue improving in my craft this year, I will be giving more non-graded practice work. Students are able to learn and practice in a low stakes environment, and I can use my time on higher priority tasks.

So before you grade your small-stakes work, as yourself: Do I REALLY need to grade everything?

NAFME Rhythm Activities: Where I found Beat Sheets