The Real Truth About Bad Grades

True or False: Bad grades runs in families?

Believe it or not, poor academic performance has more to do with a person’s choice than anything else. There are many external forces that can tamper with a child’s ability to do well in school. Still, inheriting low grades ain’t one of them. Let’s look at some of the popular contributors to bad grades, and how to fix them.

Hitting The Homework Snooze Button
Using the “My-dog-ate-my-homework” trick might miraculously serve as an excuse once or twice, but repeatedly making excuses for not doing assignments will only result in failing grades. Homework is practice. Indulging in it will help you register and remember the information you’ve learned in class. Sometimes, large chunks of semester grades hang on particular assignments. Failure to complete such projects make the difference between scoring an A or a C. Homework procrastination doesn’t help with grades either.

The Fix: Just do it!

I-Hate-It Syndrome
I hate Maths. Even if the best teacher on this planet is teaching, I couldn’t fall in love with the class. Can anyone testify? The subject you despise may not be Mathematics, but…to each his own. Fear of a subject can cripple your efforts to apply yourself. It can cause you to put up a wall of defense, which will block opportunities of growth and development. Entertaining negative beliefs of “never” gaining a passing grade in the problematic subject area, will only lower the odds.

The Fix: Hatred is no excuse. Some people hate showering, but they still have to. Others hate the cold, but they still have to work in winter. Learn to face your fears head-on. Don’t run away from a task just because it’s too difficult. Try different methods of making the subject more appealing. Study at your favorite place or while listening to your favorite music. Get the help of a tutor, form or join a club dedicated to the subject. Make up your mind to make a difference.

Parents Who Bully
Some parents make a fuss over the grades their children take home. They should in fact be concerned with their children’s academic performance, but there is a line…and sometimes parents cross it. Parents’ feedback means a lot to their children. Unfortunately, they occasionally do more damage that good with their responses. Shouting, screaming, and yelling threats won’t help. “Fathers, do not aggravate your children, or they will become discouraged.” (Colossians 3:21)

The Fix: Parents, be tactful and smart about how you choose to respond and reprimand your children regarding their grades. Be firm, but understanding and supportive as well. Encourage them to work harder. Explain to them why it’s important to do well in school. Sometimes getting teens motivated is all it takes to keep them focused.

Laziness and Bad Attitude Combo
There are valid reasons out there for getting bad grades. However, there’s none that can cover plain laziness and a bad attitude. If you put no effort into getting good grades, then bad grades will be the result–simply put. Many teens think they can idle throughout the semester and then get A’s and B’s on their report cards. That’s a miracle they can only pray for. “Lazy people want much but get little, but those who work hard will prosper.” (Proverbs 13:4)

The Fix: Take responsibility for your grades. Read the assigned textbooks, go to class, go over your class notes, and do practice problems. Put the work in and you’ll be pleased with the outcome. “Intelligence without hard work stifles success.” Amelia Brown