Argumentative Essay: The Concept Of Paying Students For High Grades

Argumentative Essay

Many of my peers have told me that their parents pay them a dollar for every A that they receive on their report card. That concept of paying students for high grades has spread across the nations. Schools now use cash to motivate students to do well in school. Though yes, this is effective, but is it right? Has this truly benefited the students as much as we think it does? The answer to both questions is no. It takes away a child’s natural desire to learn, it doesn’t work out in the long run, and it ruins teacher-student relationships. Paying students for high grades is a terrible idea because it takes away a child’s intrinsic motivation, creates conflict between students and teachers, and doesn’t work out in

Psychologists Bob Brooks and Sam Goldstein state that, “External factors may be effective and well intended, but the clearly works against the development of a child’s natural intrinsic motivation.”This means that instead of the feeling of of satisfaction and pride when a student receives grades, they receive cash. This leads to students having the mindset that their work can only be valued with materialistic things, such as money. A school for students then becomes a place of business, and not as a place to learn and grow. (As it should be.) Eventually, students might deny certain opportunities such as volunteer work, or something to do with their passion because it won’t involve money. On the flip side, it can also result in students actively participating in dangerous and illegal work, because cash is involved. In summation, it takes away a child’s natural intrinsic motivation. In addition, paying for grades, creates conflict. The Ne Article states, “Many teachers also say paying students for high grades, creates conflict between students and teachers.” Those who aren’t paid for high grades may start to feel resentment towards their teachers. This produces tension in classrooms. This could ruin possible teacher student relationships. Which leaves students with a negative outlook on school and certain classes later on. As you can see, it can create conflict between students and