Mastery Grading in Calculus II

Mastery grading, a research-supported alternative assessment system, is considered in this article as a replacement for traditional methods in a Calculus II course. Traditional percentage-based grading often fails to accurately reflect student learning in calculus, leading students to focus on accumulating points rather than mastery of topics. The implementation of mastery grading that we discuss here includes core standards as well as supplementary standards. In addition, we incorporate a traditional final exam and online homework, as well as in-class activities. We also allow students the possibility of a standard percentage-based way of computing their grade, and we discuss why having this option can help with student acceptance of mastery grading. Finally, we share survey results from an implementation of this version of mastery grading in spring 2025.