What characteristic distinguishes norm-referenced grading from standards-based grading?

The characteristic that distinguishes norm-referenced grading from standards-based grading is that it focuses on the performance of the rest of the class. In a norm-referenced grading system, students’ scores are interpreted in relation to the performance of their peers. This means that grades are determined based on how students perform relative to one another rather than against a fixed set of standards or criteria.

In contrast, standards-based grading assesses students based on their mastery of predetermined learning objectives or standards, irrespective of how their peers are performing. This approach emphasizes individual student achievement concerning specific learning goals rather than placing students in a competitive context against one another. Consequently, while norm-referenced grading may rank students within a group, standards-based grading evaluates whether each student has met the defined educational standards. This fundamental difference highlights the role of relative performance in norm-referenced systems versus individual mastery in standards-based systems.