How to Track Grades for Homeschool Students

When homeschooling, tracking grades becomes more important than ever at the high school level. Students are preparing for higher education and will need a thorough transcript as part of their application process. With basic computer software and one of the many online tools for calculating grade point averages, you can provide prospective colleges with an accurate, professional transcript of grades. Read on to learn how to track grades for homeschool students.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Begin by generating a simple grading record in either Microsoft Word or Excel. Use the program that you are most familiar with, as this is as simple as recording the grades and calculations onto a record that you can print. The printed record will become part of your student's high school portfolio, but more importantly, it will be used for transcribing grades into a high school transcript. Format a table with headings across for each grading period and rows for each subject. One method of recording grades is to calculate an average from homework assignments as one grade, an average of weekly reviews as one grade, and a final grade for a comprehensive exam each semester. The grade for homework and weekly reviews count for 50 percent and the final exam counts for 50 percent of the total grade for that subject in a semester. This is one of many methods for recording grades. Any system you are using will work for recording purposes.
2. When you are ready to calculate a grade point average, whether by semester or at year's end, there are formulas you can use. However, it is much easier to simply use one of the online GPA calculators. Several such tools are listed in the Resources section below. Recording grade point averages is very important to an overall transcript. Most colleges are expecting to see grades for a student's entire time in high school.
3. If you are unschooling, tracking grades can be a bit more unorthodoxed. You will need to determine a criteria for certain projects, activities, or interest-led achievements. Again, it is to your student's benefit to have all grades reflected in a grade point average format on their transcripts. It is especially important for unschoolers to thoroughly document all achievements, community service and other accomplishments for inclusion in a graduating portfolio.
4. If you prefer a written recording of grades, you can find grading books at any education supply store. While most of these are intended for large classes, they can often be altered to accommodate your homeschooling needs. If you use a gradebook instead of a record that is saved on your computer, be sure you have a place for safe keeping since you will not have a backup copy.
5. High school is a preparing ground for higher education or vocation. Keeping accurate, up to date records will have immeasurable benefits to your student. While no one way is "right," failing to record grades and other important information can be costly when your student pursues college.

Tips & Warnings

• Begin your high school years with a student portfolio. Keep it up to date and keep a back-up copy of all important documents.
• Be sure your curriculum, grading practices, and other homeschooling methods are in compliance with your state's laws.