The Case for Alternative Assessments to Traditional Grades in Judaic Studies

Judaic Studies holds a unique and vital role, distinct from General Studies, in shaping a strong Jewish identity and influencing students' lives both now and in the future. To fully achieve these meaningful goals, it’s important to approach evaluation thoughtfully, as traditional grading can potentially hinder the deeper purpose of Judaic education by:

  • Making students feel their “Jewishness” is being judged.

  • Creating pressure that may diminish their desire to engage with Judaism after graduation.

  • Encouraging short-term cramming instead of long-term internalization of the material.

  • Overlooking the deeper, immeasurable aspects of meaning-making in lessons.

  • Potentially fostering environments prone to academic shortcuts like cheating or grade inflation.

How can we change this?

Rather than simply removing grades, it’s essential to develop strategies that:

  • Hold students accountable for their work and progress toward mastery.

  • Foster full engagement and participation.

  • Provide clear, meaningful feedback to students and their parents.

  • Inspire intrinsic motivation, ensuring students connect deeply and personally with their learning journey.

By using alternative assessment methods to provide positive, growth-oriented feedback, Jewish day schools can tap into their students intrinsic motivation.

 
 

Bring Alternative Assessment Methods to Your School

Contact Sharon Freundel, Managing Director, or Rabbi Shmuel Feld, Founding Director, to explore how implementing alternative assessment methods in your school can support your students’ intellectual and spiritual growth.