The Impact of Subjective Grading on Student Success

Introduction

Every student has experienced the anxiety of waiting for grades, only to discover that they were not the result they had hoped for. One such case involved a high school student who faced a series of unfair and subjective grading experiences. This article explores the various factors that contribute to subjective grading and its impact on student success, particularly through the lens of a high school teacher's perspective.

Personal Experience of Unfair Grading

My experience as a high school student turned English teacher provided me with a unique insight into the complexities of the grading process. In my sophomore year, I encountered an instructor who graded me lower than other students in the class, which was deeply troubling. A vivid example of this unfairness occurred during an assignment where my friend and I submitted the same paper, merely differing in a few words to maintain academic integrity. Despite our efforts, I received a C, while my friend got an A. This disparity highlighted the subjective nature of grading, which can be heavily influenced by teacher bias.

Context and Consequences

The situation was exacerbated by the fact that my parents were both teachers in the same school system, and my friend's grade did not reflect the quality of her work alone. The uneven grading extended beyond our class, impacting my academic standing and future classes. My counselor intervened to ensure that I did not have the same instructor again, recognizing the unfairness in the system. This episode underscored the impact of subjective grading on student confidence and future opportunities.

Experiences of Academic Injustice

Not all cases of unfair grading are as clear-cut as mine. For Tufshin, a similar episode occurred in 7th grade when an entire class was punished for a teacher's personal vendetta. Despite being innocent, Tufshin and the rest of the class were made to fail the exam, serving as a stark example of how personal biases can detract from educational integrity. Another instance described involves a student who narrowly missed the first division in the matriculation board exam by just two marks. While this loss of distinction caused significant emotional distress, it also serves as a reminder of the high stakes involved in subjective grading.

The Role of Subjective Grading in Education

From my experience as a teacher, the grading process involves a delicate balance between objective and subjective criteria. For essays and compositions, grades are broken down into sections such as usage, spelling, and grammar, reviewed alongside organization and content. However, for shorter answer questions, a different approach is necessary. Content is often the most critical component, and grading based on organization and content is essential for providing meaningful feedback.

Addressing Subjective Grading

One of the major challenges with subjective grading is the inability to maintain complete objectivity. While unfair grading can be disheartening, it is crucial to recognize that sometimes a higher grade may also be unjust. The key lies in acknowledging the subjectivity and striving for fairness through consistent and transparent grading policies. Teachers and institutions need to work towards minimizing bias and ensuring that each student receives a fair and accurate evaluation of their work.

Conclusion

Unfair grading can have a profound impact on students' academic and emotional well-being. It is essential for teachers, school administrators, and policymakers to address this issue to create a more equitable and just educational environment. By recognizing the subjectivity in the grading process and working to mitigate biases, we can ensure that each student receives the support they need to succeed.