By Madison Carr
Due to hybrid learning, many schools have decided to not require midterms. In its place, some teachers have chosen alternative tests, quizzes, projects, or chose to assign nothing. While discussing their decision, one teacher explained, “Online learning is hard enough as it is, we don’t need to add more work for the students.”
The optional midterms for the 2020-21 school year have raised questions about whether teachers should be able to choose to give a midterm in future years. For some classes, teachers do not find midterms necessary. Midterms can take away valuable lesson time. The tests waste a week that could be used teaching curriculum. By having the ability to choose, both teachers and students are able to focus on the important coursework.
“Why do we even take midterms?” is a common question students ask. The tests can feel like an unnecessary burden added to their already busy schedules. However, there are a few reasons why schools continue to give these tests. They provide students and teachers a good representation of how they are doing in the class. Students can see exactly what they need to improve on. Finally, midterms help prepare students for the final in their class.
Students and teachers are both left with many questions on the future of midterms. Ultimately, we will have to wait to see the consensus on the issue.
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