Cheat or Compete?
Competition is healthy. It encourages us to perform to our highest potential. As students, we engage
in competition many times during the day, whether it is for a great score on a test, to be the first to set the fashion trends in class, to win the math or science contests in our school, or to be chosen to join the band, choir or debate team. Competition is an important part of our school lives, our social lives and our civic lives. It is the American way.
It’s true that competition is a normal and beneficial part of life. However, the pressures in today’s competitive society have preyed upon many students, and have caused many kids to feel the need to cheat. In fact, studies have documented a rise in cheating in recent years, and cheating ranks highest on the list of students’ ethical dilemmas. The idea of cheating is very tempting. Not giving in to the pressure of cheating is difficult when “everybody is doing it.” Parents and teachers pressure us to get good grades and increase our class ranking…friends offer to allow us to copy their homework or tell us what we can expect to see on an exam. This grading pressure and need to succeed provides the incentives for students to cheat.
You can be a success in school and thrive amid the competition without cheating if you follow a few easy tips. These ideas have worked for me, and they will work for you, too. First, tests and quizzes are an important part of learning to succeed in school. Although students compete with their classmates on tests and quizzes, learning to excel takes preparation and good study habits. You don’t have to study hard, but you do have to study smart. Ask your teacher to prepare a study guide. Turn all of the subject headings in your book into questions, and see if you can answer the questions before you take the test. Answer your questions aloud to be certain you have the confidence necessary to ace the exam. You can do it! Do your homework yourself. Research suggests that 70 percent of the material for tests and quizzes comes from homework. The other 30 percent is learned in class or from your textbook. By doing your own homework, you will learn most of the material you will need to be successful on tests and quizzes, so it is worth your effort.
Develop a good relationship with your teacher. Teachers will be very supportive and will go out of their way to assist you, if you ask for their help. A good rapport with your teacher will add enjoyment to the process of learning. Make an appointment to see your teacher before or after school and tell them you are committed to learning. Teachers love to help students who show determination and perseverance toward learning.
Competition is prevalent in schools, as well as in society. As the prizes for the winners increase, students are more willing to do whatever it takes to be a winner. But you can use that healthy competition to your advantage, instead of being intimidated by it. Don’t use competition as an excuse to cheat. Use competition as a tool to keep you focused on your success instead of worrying about how you “measure up” to your classmates. Using these easy tips, you can compete honestly, effectively and successfully.
*Kasie is a 17-year-old high school junior from the area. If you have any questions or comments, contact Kasie for her point of view at kasieskorner@marsusa.com.
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