Scores and grades carry a great deal of importance. They CAN determine one's entire future. Of course, this terrifies me. Yet I am not the only one. I understand why and how educators use grades. I haven't really thought of a greater, or more effective, alternative either. I assume that my children will stress out over a B just as I do now. Sorry dudes.
Grades aren't the result of an education. One will be graded on a multitude of things throughout life in school, but a transcript of letters doesn't seem to justify the many early mornings and late nights (that should gain applause from fellow procrastinators).
As I see it, school is just prep for the "real" world. The machine known as school works to take in children, and return adults. I think it works pretty well- in my case. Some schools may be ranked higher than others; some schools may test higher than others. I have been fortunate enough in my life to attend highly ranked schools. I have also experienced the other end of the spectrum. You might have a guess as to which I prefer.
General attitude, in my opinion and experience, is directly proportional to academic success. When students are pushed to be "good enough," they become ok with mediocrity and settling for less than their best. They become "good enough." This is ok for some. When students are pushed for their best, they often have a greater sense of pride and self worth. Students learn how to differentiate between grades and actual learning. Too much of an emphasis on grading can be unhealthy.
And yet again, life becomes a balancing act.
"Attitude, not aptitude, determines altitude"
I don't agree with everything this guy has to say, but that doesn't really matter.