A Strategy for Focusing on Growth Over Test Grades
Let me tell you about one of my students—we’ll call him Henry.
Henry is smart, creative, and hilarious. He marches to the beat of his own drum, constantly thinks outside the box, and keeps us all laughing. But here’s the thing: Henry doesn’t have the best grades.
When it’s test time, he skims the passages, selects random answers, and is done before I’ve even settled into my chair.
When I asked him why, he shrugged and said, “I don’t know. I’m just not a good test taker. I’m not going to do well, so why try?”
Sound familiar?
I’m sure you can think of a handful of students just like Henry—smart and capable but stuck in a mindset that holds them back.
This year, I decided to tackle that head-on by focusing on growth instead of just grades.
Why Growth Matters
Research shows that setting goals before a test helps students focus and take ownership of their learning. I’ve seen it firsthand: when students are invested in their own growth, they try harder. It’s not always about passing the test—it’s about doing better than last time.
And let me tell you, the shift in mindset has been a game-changer.
My Growth-Focused Strategy
Before each major assessment, my students fill out a goal-setting and focus Google Form. Here’s how I set it up:
1️⃣ When is the test?
This cuts down on the “Wait! What? We have a test today?” comments.
2️⃣ What effort did you put into the last test?
Students choose from four levels (No Effort to High Effort), with examples to guide their response.
3️⃣ Why are we taking this test?
I include a mix of funny and serious answer choices. One option is “It’s a way to torture students,” while the correct answer explains that tests assess their understanding.
4️⃣ What was your score on the last test?
They check PowerSchool for class tests or I hand them a slip of paper with their previous score for district assessments.
5️⃣ What’s your goal?
I encourage realistic goals—about 10 points higher than their last score, for example.
6️⃣ What’s one thing you can do to improve your score?
Students focus on one actionable step, like reading the passage or getting a good night’s sleep.
7️⃣ Select one strategy from our toolbox.
I list strategies we’ve discussed in class, like annotating the text or writing their goal at the top of the paper.
8️⃣ How do you want to celebrate growth?
Students choose from rewards like a Jolly Rancher, bonus points, a positive phone call home, or even decorating a flower for our growth wall. (Yes, even my big football players love the flowers—and their Griddy dance moves make it even better!)
What Happens After the Test
When students improve, we celebrate! I call them to the front of the room, give them their prize and a flower with their growth points, and they decorate it for our “Watch Us Grow” wall.
The result?
Students are hyped about their growth and invested in their success.
On our most recent district assessment, my grade level scored the highest in the county! It was such a proud moment for our school, especially since we’re often mid-pack.
For me, growth is what matters most. And seeing my students take ownership of their progress has been the highlight of my year.
Ready to Celebrate Growth in Your Classroom?
A Free Gift to Get You Started
I’d love for you to try this strategy in your classroom, so I’m sharing my growth flower template with you for free! 🪻
It’s perfect for celebrating your students’ progress and creating a visual reminder of their hard work.
Motivation Resources on ELA Unlimited
If you’re an ELA Unlimited member, I’ve already created the Google Form for you, along with tons of other resources to help foster motivation and growth. You can find it in the Motivation and Growth section.
