Choose one of the given prompts pertaining to marks and marking systems, for critical reflection:
What do the authors mean when they say that 'it's all too tempting to use marks as vehicles to reach, or try to reach, other ends'? Do you agree with their viewpoint on this? Explain why or why not? What kinds of ends do you think educators might try to reach through marks, other than assessing learning?
Why do you think some teachers like to grade students on a curve? Do you see advantages in the author's point about teachers being less motivated to enhance when doing this? Explain why or why not? What effect do you think it might have on student motivation? Describe.