Question

write an essay in response to the merits and demerits of grading on a bell curve.

Use the following article https://cubelogger.wordpress.com/2011/07/15/the-merits-and-demerits-of-grading-on-a-bell-curve/

Answer 1

Answer :- Bell curve:-

A bell curve, or more specifically, a Gaussian Distribution, is a symmetric curve that is pronounced in the middle, and tapered off at the edges (it really does look like a bell). As such, the middle portion under the curve contains more area than either of the ends.

*Grading on a curve *

When courses are said to be “marked on the curve,” this usually means that a predetermined percentage of students will obtain each grade. For example, a certain amount of students will receive an A+ (top 4%), a certain amount will receive an A (next 7%), and so on and so forth. Ultimately, the distribution of grades will fit ‘nicely’ on a bell shaped curve; with the majority of students obtaining marks near the middle portion of the curve (‘B’ range). Unfortunately, however; this also necessitates the fact that a certain percentage of students will inevitably obtain ‘F’ grades, and fail the course entirely (bottom 6%).

Merits of bell curve -

1) The curve is quite accurate at differentiating between student abilities when used in large classes, that is, classes with 200 students or more. There is nothing really remarkable about this fact; all statistical methods are more accurate when the sample size is increased. (The cream of the crop rise to the top)

2) The curve fosters healthy competition. When graded on a curve, many people like to compete amongst their friends to see who will come out with the highest mark when all is said and done. This gives people an extra incentive to study hard and aim skyward for success.

3) The curve fosters healthy competition. When graded on a curve, many people like to compete amongst their friends to see who will come out with the highest mark when all is said and done. This gives people an extra incentive to study hard and aim skyward for success.

Merits of bell curve:-

1) The curve is not good to use for small classes (less than 100 students).

2) The curve has the potential to foster unhealthy competition. With the knowledge that they ‘must’ outperform their peers, some students may adopt a rather, disingenuous attitude towards their fellow classmates. They may not be willing to provide help, or worse yet, may deliberately feed others misinformation in order to get ahead.

3) High class averages are not always favorable. Let’s say that a certain course has a class average that is 85%. If you were one of the students who obtained 70%, then you would be in for a rude awakening, courtesy of your ‘friend’, the bell curve. If the average, which is 85%, would equate to a grade in the ‘B’ range, your 70% would most likely sit somewhere in the ‘C’ range, or … lower still.