The document discusses principles of effective grading and assessment. It emphasizes that grades should communicate students' current achievement levels and focus on mastery of learning targets. Multiple factors like effort and work habits should be evaluated separately. Assessments should also differentiate between formative assessments for learning and summative assessments of learning. Portfolios and conferences are discussed as tools to involve students, demonstrate growth, and communicate achievement. Standardized tests represent one way to assess learning but are not the only measure and teachers should communicate test information accurately.