Plus-minus grading systems and other systems that increase the grading options beyond the whole-letter system of A, B, C, D, and F are now in wide use. However, a number of schools continue to use the traditional whole-letter system and changes in grading systems arouse strong emotions which can make implementation of a new system difficult or, in some cases impossible. This study first presents a review of the prevalence of alternative grading systems based upon examination of online catalogs. Then a survey of faculty and student opinions about implementation of a plus-minus grading system at a school currently using the whole-letter grading system is presented as well as a discussion of the motivation underlying these opinions. Because this study presents a thorough discussion of the comparative advantages and disadvantages of plus-minus grading systems to constituent groups, it should be of interest to faculty and policy makers at schools contemplating a change in their grading systems
