Grades! Grades are a choice topic for discussion at any time, but especially at the impending end of quarters or semesters.

At the mere mention of the subject, nearly all students shudder inwardly. Why is this? Are their grades really that bad? Some people put on a big show when grades are mentioned. Their report cards are some of the best around, but to hear their tale of woe, they might as well be failing everything. These people just want attention or a chance to feel superior to a student with poorer grades.

Another reason for griping is laziness on the part of a student. He expects to get good grades regardless of the effort he is putting forth.

When a test is returned with a grade lower than the expected one, do you holler, robbed? In most cases proper study habits and effort in studying will be a reflection of that well or ill‑used time.

Some teachers will give the lower grade if a student is on the border line. One reason for this might be the teacher's wish to give the student an incentive to work a little harder. As a rule, the student will give the extra "push" that is needed. Some resent the teacher because they think the teacher is against them. This attitude only hurts the student.

Grades and griping are here to stay. It seems to be a tradition among students to complain about grades. Why not find out what is wrong and do something about it?