Why Grading Students on Effort and Participation Works Better

Education has been stuck in a rut for decades. The system focuses too much on test scores and not enough on how students grow and participate. This approach pushes students to give up, especially in high school. But there's a better way. Some teachers have found success by grading students on effort and participation, not just test results. For example, in music classes, students were encouraged to try, even if they made mistakes. This method led to higher grades and happier students. It also made teachers more creative and autonomous. The problem is that standardized tests are easy to administer and are seen as fair. But they're not. They don't show the whole picture of a student's abilities. Grading based on effort and participation is harder, but it's more accurate. It also motivates students to engage and achieve. Elementary schools already use this method because it works. So why can't middle and high schools do the same? The focus should be on both participation and achievement, not just test scores. When only test scores count, everyone loses. Teachers need to build positive relationships with students and parents. When students understand their grades and feel heard, complaints disappear. This method is harder, but it's doable and fair. It's time for a change in how we grade students.