In Grade 8, math is reported on the Proficiency Scale — not letter grades and not percentages. The scale describes where your learning is right now and where it's headed. Here's what each word means, in plain language.
You're getting started. You show an initial understanding of the concept or skill. This is a normal, healthy place to be early in a unit — it means the learning is underway.
You're building. You show a partial understanding and can apply it with some support. You're on your way and getting steadier with practice.
You've got it. You show a complete understanding of the concept or skill and can use it on your own. Proficient is the goal for the course — it means you've solidly met the Grade 8 expectations. It is not a "B." Reaching Proficient is full, successful achievement.
You're going further. You show a sophisticated understanding and can apply the skill in new, more complex, or creative ways. Extending is not "extra credit you must chase" — it happens naturally when you stretch an idea beyond the core expectation.
This is the most common question, so let's clear it up. The Proficiency Scale isn't the letter-grade scale wearing a costume. Proficient is the target — it means you've fully met the Grade 8 learning standards. It is the goal we're aiming for, not a near-miss of something higher.
Extending isn't "the real A" either. It describes a different kind of work — applying an idea in new or more complex ways — not simply "more" or "better." A student who is solidly Proficient has succeeded. Take a breath: arriving at Proficient is exactly where this course is designed to take you.
Your early attempts are for learning, not for keeps. Practice and quizzes are redoable, and your grade reflects your most recent, best evidence — not the bumps along the way. I gather that evidence by observing you work, talking with you about your thinking, and collecting your work over time.
Your best may look different from someone else's, and that's okay. What matters is that your learning is moving forward.