#GradesAreJustNumbers

Written by: K.C. L. Villanueva BSIT 1F1

Midterm exam is almost in the corner and I know everyone has different views on
that certain event. Taking the midterm exam means our professor can also determine our
midterm grades. So, today, I want to talk about a topic that affects and concern almost all of
the students around the world which is grades. More specifically, I want to explain why
grades are just a number and not a definitive measure of a student’s intelligence or worth.

Firstly, it’s important to understand what grades represent. They are a numerical or
letter-based assessment of a student’s performance on a particular task or subject. These
grades are often used as a way to measure a student’s level of knowledge or understanding,
but they do not reflect the whole picture.

In today’s society, grades have become a significant source of stress and pressure
for students, parents, and teachers alike. However, the reality is that grades do not define a
person’s worth or intelligence.

As students, we often feel like our grades define us. We stress over exams and
assignments, hoping to receive the highest possible grade. We compare our grades with
those of our peers, feeling elated when we come out on top, and disappointed when we fall
short. But here’s the thing: grades are just a number. They do not define our worth or
potential. They are simply a measure of how we performed on a particular task or subject, at
a particular point in time.

Grades only reflect a student’s performance on a particular task or exam. It does not
reflect our intelligence, creativity, or other skills that may not be assessed in a traditional
grading system. For instance, a student who excels in mathematics may struggle with
communicating, and hence may not perform as well in a purposive communication course.
This does not mean that the student is not intelligent or lacks potential; it merely shows that
they have different strengths and weaknesses.

Furthermore, grades do not reflect the learning process that takes place while
studying a subject. A student who has a deep understanding of a subject may not
necessarily receive top grades if they struggle with test-taking or if the grading system does
not adequately assess their knowledge. Similarly, a student who earns high grades through
memorization may not retain the information they learned long-term.

So, what should we focus on instead of grades? We should focus on understanding

for the sake of learning. We should embrace our individuality and pursue our passions,
regardless of how they may be perceived by others. We should seek out opportunities to
challenge ourselves, to grow and learn in new and exciting ways. And we should celebrate
the diversity of human intelligence, recognizing that every student has something unique and
valuable to offer.

In conclusion, let us remember that grades are just a number. They are one measure
of our performance, but they do not define us as individuals. Encouraging a love of learning
and providing students with the resources and support they need to succeed is more
important than focusing solely on grades. Let us focus on learning for the sake of learning,
and let us celebrate the diversity of human intelligence.