<p>It’s not really a good idea to draw parallels between an A-F system and the 6 point system. Having used both systems, the expectations are very different. Generally a 6 is a 93-100 and a 5 is an 84-92. Students work very hard to achieve a 5 and must be truly dedicated to receive a 6 average. Almost all schools have grade inflation nation wide and while there may be some at prep schools, I think it is less than the average.</p>
<p>There has been a shift in grades in the last couple years. When I started the average grade was a 4.5, now it has become a 5. I think this shift has occurred as newer teachers are filling open spots. I found that the more veteran teachers, who had gone through schools without grade inflation, had higher expectations than the younger ones. One of my teachers admitted that he rarely gave out 6s, maybe once a year if that. It might look bad on a transcript, but there is real meaning behind that grade. You don’t receive a 6 by accident. Colleges know that the work behind a 5 or 6 at Andover isn’t the same amount of work or effort required to get an honors grade at most public schools. </p>
<p>Another point you may consider is that it’s a good thing that students aren’t being failed (both a 0 and 1 are considered failing). Teachers and advisers are able to step in and successfully help a student who is struggling. Also, if a student is consistently getting 2s or below, they may be asked to leave.</p>