by The Knight's Post Staff
Edited by Brenner Cobb
What’s the issue?
The issue at hand is the question of whether or not students should take mandatory exams in their academic classes. Valid questions about the benefits of exam-taking are being raised and studying for and taking long exams is unarguably stressful for many students. Many point out that exams aren’t always an accurate indicator of a student's academic abilities or knowledge in that subject as some individuals experience test anxiety that inhibits their ability to do well. Additionally, some question if exams are necessary if a student has earned an A average all year and demonstrates that they have a strong command of the material.
Why is it important?
This topic is important because preparing for exams is time-consuming, stressful, and sometimes confusing. Some students point out the impact that stress caused by exams has on their mental health challenges. The exams themselves can have a major impact on a student’s semester average, and a noticeable impact on their yearly average. While the contribution of exams to a student’s learning has being questioned more often recently, some believe that exams prepare students for the real world and should continue to be given.
Why should Greenfield students care?
Greenfield students should care because they take exams in almost all of their classes. Seniors should care because less than ideal exam grades can be the reason a college defers or denies their application. Younger high school students should care because, unlike seniors, who can be exempted from some of their exams if they maintain an A average over the course of the entire year, they must take both midterm and final exams in all of their classes. Exams affect all students differently, and Greenfield students believe that they should be able to share their opinions on and experiences with exams. For many students, exam week is very stressful and has negative impacts on their mental health. However, some believe that taking exams helps students learn how to work under pressure and time limits and are useful in preparing them for college and their careers.
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