Previously, I discussed how it was brought to my attention that some schools are now helping students to understand their skill levels. The students are being given a skill number that helps them know where they stand academically.
In my last article I discussed the pros of students knowing their skill levels. In this article I will address some cons of students knowing and understanding how they compare academically.
Lack of Effort
When an intelligent student is given a very high skill number and realizes that his or her number is much higher than some other students, the child may feel that effort is not needed. In some cases students believe that they are too smart to listen or learn. They stop applying themselves.
Lack of Challenge
When a student knows that he or she is performing at a certain level, they tend to not work any higher. When a student is told that he or she can work at a level 3, the student is less likely to even attempt a higher level. The student feels as if he ors he is placed with boundaries and does not attempt to go above them.
More Division of Students
Students are divided enough as it is, especially in middle school. Students divide themselves by popularity, social status, looks, and more. They categorize themselves without us needing to add any more to it. By labeling students with a level, we give more lead way for division.
Students can typically identify the various academic levels among themselves without the help from adults. We all know that we do separate students by ability level at some point in time. Although the students know with unspoken words that they are in the “high” or “low” group, it is usually more accepted by the children if it is not clearly spoken.