Overview
The lecture discusses increasing high school grades in Ontario, their effect on university admissions, and concerns about grade inflation and student preparedness.
Rising High School Grades
- The number of Ontario grade 12 students with A+ marks is increasing steadily.
- High school averages rose slowly in the 2010s but soared rapidly during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- During the early COVID-19 period, teachers may have boosted grades to encourage and support students.
University Admissions Challenges
- High grades no longer guarantee admission to competitive university programs.
- Students with averages as high as 96% are still rejected by top commerce programs like those at University of Toronto, McMaster, and Queen’s.
- There is concern that average admission cutoffs may continue to rise, possibly requiring near-perfect scores.
Impact of Grade Inflation
- Inflated high school grades can give students a false sense of preparedness for university.
- Universities warn that first year could be challenging for students whose abilities don’t match their high school marks.
- Despite grade inflation, more Ontario students enrolled in university during the pandemic, contrary to trends in the U.S.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Grade Inflation — The gradual rise in average grades awarded to students, not always reflecting true academic achievement.
- A+ Mark — A top grade in high school, often considered 90% or above.
- Admission Cutoff — The minimum average required for acceptance into a university program.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Reflect on the implications of grade inflation for university preparedness.
- Consider researching how universities may adjust admissions processes in response to rising averages.
- Prepare for university-level work by assessing your actual understanding and skills, not just final grades.