Mathematics teachers need to teach students more than just a laundry list of mathematical skills. Many of us also want to train our students to use mathematical habits of mind. However, traditional grading schemes usually do not allow us to reward intellectual courage and modesty. In this paper, I report on my implementation of specifications grading in a mathematics content course for preservice elementary teachers. This scheme supports my students in revising their mathematical thinking, taking mathematical risks, and effectively communicating their ideas through writing.