Main navigation | Main content Ask students to put their
complaint or request in writing and include the rationale for
WHY their answer is correct or their essay deserves a better
grade. This policy tends to result in fewer complaints because
when students try to justify their request they often discover
that the instructor was right! It also provides the time
necessary for students to cool down and time for the instructor
to calmly consider the student's point of view without feeling
defensive. In addition, the act of writing a request and
justification is an excellent learning opportunity for the
student. If you decide that the student has a good case, adjust
the grade accordingly. If you decide against the student's
request, make arrangements to talk with the student about your
decision. When talking with students about the grade: This tip
sheet on Grading Practices by Barbara Gross Davis contains a
number of good examples for both minimizing the likelihood of
grading complaints as well as for handling the