- Published: November 14, 2021
- Updated: November 14, 2021
- University / College: Georgetown University
- Language: English
- Downloads: 46
A common occurrence these days especially in children during sports days, competitions and even spelling bees is to give everyone a trophy even if they do not win. To congratulate them at least for effort and participation. The rationale behind this is to protect their self esteem and show them they are good even though not the best. This trend is creeping up in effect to school grades where everyone could be awarded an A. It is statistically impossible for a class of random students to all obtain A’s.
While I support the need for self esteem provision, am cognizant of the fact that merit is important. Grading students between A and F serves to show the hardworking and the talented. It is these people that are central to human evolution as Darwin postulated. Refusing to recognize them by giving everyone the same grade is encouraging complacency and too much of a laid back nature not in line with reality. We live in a competitive world where merit in various fields is central to our progress not just individually but as humanity. Grading is meant to our children- that hard work even when one is not innately talented and resilience are the foundation stones of success.
Grading serves also to show us what fields we are ‘ inherently’ good at. It is rare to attain the same grade in all subjects while putting in similar effort. This serves to direct us to the fields that suit our natural dispositions best be it mathematics or music.
In conclusion, giving everyone an A is ill advised as it destroys the pursuit of hard work while encouraging mediocrity. No society has moved forward without supporting the merit system. It is the cornerstone of our country.