You Have All Been Tricked

Grades don't matter. Well maybe they do, but they shouldn't. I'm not saying it because I have a bad grade, and am frustrated over it. Actually I have quite the opposite. I have straight A's. So what's my problem?

I don't have to try to get good grades. I've only ever sat down and truly studied for a test a few times in my life. I do the homework without hardly ever having a problem with it, except in math class. The effort put into school for me is minimal. So why do I deserve an A? There are people who work hard, stay up late studying, and take pages of notes. Yet no matter how hard they try they can't seem to get anything above a C, except maybe an occasional B.

Don't get me wrong. I love having good grades. But maybe the grading system isn't helping those who are trying the hardest. It rewards naturally smart people, and the few who do work hard for those grades.

This isn't supposed to nag on teachers at all. They teach with whatever method works best for them. But I think it is most fair if participation is a bigger part of the grading process. Think about it. Anybody can raise their hand to volunteer. Your not going to going to get docked points for getting it wrong (unless the teacher is an absolute jerk). Now for people like me that idea is terrifying. I hate volunteering. I fidgit and say um like a broken record. However maybe if more teachers made it a requirement it would help people, like me, to get out there. Help us get over our little stage fright, which can help us in other areas of our life. Like speaking up at meetings, sharing our opinions, stuff like that. Meanwhile kids can earn a fair grade.

Just an idea. I will probably have some teacher tell me why that's not possible. And that's fine. It's only my opinion. It's not like I have ever taught a class before, but I think it's a good idea =)