What does it mean to assess students' papers beyond grading?

Assessing students' papers beyond grading means gathering information about the students and their writing. This involves understanding their strengths, weaknesses, and overall development as writers. By focusing on assessment in a broader context, educators can gain insights into how well students are grasping concepts, how they approach writing tasks, and where they might need additional support.

This form of assessment requires a holistic view of the student’s abilities, rather than just a numerical score on a paper. It allows educators to identify trends in writing skills, such as common grammatical errors or areas where students are particularly strong, which can inform future instruction. Additionally, this comprehensive approach helps to foster a growth mindset, encouraging students to see their writing as an evolving skill rather than a fixed ability tied solely to grades.