55. Extra credit
I have two problems with the method extra credit is granted by most teachers. First of all, the only students who usually complete it are the one’s who are highly motivated and competitive, wishing to gain every percentage point possible. On the other hand, students who are too lazy to complete work on time, often beg at the end of a term (marking period) for extra credit to bring their grade back up to passing or to meet eligibility criteria. Why in the world should they be given the easy way out? They didn’t do much of what was asked of them, so now teachers need to come up with additional lessons. Time is much too valuable to be spent on duplicating assignments. There is a better way to implement extra credit into your grading system.
I understand that assignments/projects require deadlines. I also understand that students often need additional work to challenge them or enable them to keep up. Here is what I have come up with. Any late assignment may be turned in before the end of the term for half credit. In order to “qualify” for extra credit, you must have all of your work turned in. As for the type of extra credit I assign, well that is up to each student. If they feel they need it, then they submit to me what they want to do for additional credit.
With my system, both the student and I win. Extra credit becomes more of a “bonus” opportunity. The motivated, competitive student is able to use their creativity in assigning themselves bonus work (see next idea). The lazy student must complete my assignments before giving the opportunity to better their grade. They figure out sooner or later, that it is much better to complete their work on time, earn a higher grade, and actually do less work. The responsibility is on the student and I free up time that can be used more efficiently.
