Ever since last week, I have been struggling to decide on whether or not to argue against my history teacher about a quiz that I have miserably failed. Before the quiz, my history teacher told everyone in her AP U.S. History classes that the quiz would be word-for-word to the textbook. However, this was so wrong. My history teacher lied and used a quiz from an online resource that was not even word-for-word to the textbook. This was one of the reasons why I feel that taking an online quiz was a horrible idea, however. So, my history teacher said that everyone gets one try on the quiz before the quiz. But, during the quiz, I saw people taking the quiz multiple times just to get a higher score which is cheating in my opinion. I only took it one time due to my conscience.
After the quiz, about several periods after, I heard that so many people in the other AP U.S. History classes in the school had done the same aforementioned method of cheating on the quiz. I tried persuading the AP U.S. History teachers that it was a bad idea to give an online quiz, however they did not even listen.
So, what should I do? Argue against them again to remove the quiz grade or let it fly?
definitely discuss it with the teacher but do not argue. Teachers are people and have egos. From my experience, they don’t want students acting as lawyers. However, if you state your concerns extremely respectfully, go for it. Make sure to include to the cheating/conscience situation.
So, two of you prefer me to just keep my mouth shut and let the history teachers encourage cheating? No wonder our education system is in disarray! Also, to CottonTales, I was not whining. I was simply stating my situation.
You could mention your concerns about cheating to the teacher. The other stuff in your post - whether the test was word for word with the textbook was whining.
Teachers can do and use whatever teaching methods they want.
If you want to discuss this with your teacher, I would first discuss it with your parents and see if they agree. Then ask your GC and ask him/her about your concern.
I applaud your honesty in taking the quiz once. You shouldn’t worry about other students. The guilt is on them.
It’s not your job to enforce the test taking honor code. Just chalk it up as a lesson on how teachers are not always fair and try to just get through the class. Teachers vary in quality.
Looks like I will be asking my counselor about this. Wish that I had thought about that before. If I turn out to be unsuccessful, then I would be over it anyway. If I turn out to be successful, I would be the happiest man on earth. Thank you all for your kind responses, and I wish for the best for myself and to all of you.