Ethan Louie Lopes
A friend recently shared a story that made me see how just one mark can change someone’s academic journey—and even their future.
He told me about a boy who, despite his best efforts, failed his internal assessments. His overall exam results painted a similar picture—he scored 39 out of 100 in three subjects, just one mark short of the passing grade. As a result, he had backlogs in three papers. Imagine the weight of that single mark—the difference between progress and setback, between confidence and despair.
Yet, when students approach teachers to reconsider that one mark, the common response is often dismissive, “What difference does one mark make?” But the truth is, that one mark is the fine line that separates success from failure.
This extends beyond internal assessments and semester exams. In competitive exams, such as medical and engineering entrances, the impact of a single mark is amplified exponentially. It can be the deciding factor between securing a seat in a prestigious institution or being left behind. It can determine whether a student pursues their dream career or is forced to settle for an alternative path.
To make sure one mark doesn’t unfairly affect a student’s future, schools and colleges can take some steps:
Look at the bigger picture
Schools and universities can adopt a more comprehensive approach to grading by considering factors such as class participation, assignments, and overall improvement. This way, final grades are not solely dependent on a single exam. Offering extra credit opportunities can also help the students bridge the gaps in their performance.
Be fair and flexible
Teachers should approach grading with fairness and transparency. If a student is just one mark away from passing or qualifying for the next level, options such as re-evaluations or second chances—like submitting additional work or attending a review session—could be offered.
Offer reassessments
Institutions could introduce reassessment options where students who narrowly miss the passing mark can reattempt specific sections of an exam or complete alternative assessments, preventing long-term setbacks.
Focus on learning,
not just marks
Both students and educators should adopt a mindset focused on learning and improvement rather than just grades. Encouraging students to see every mark as an opportunity for growth can reduce stress and promote persistence.
Provide extra support
Academic advisors and mentors can guide struggling students. Early intervention can prevent minor setbacks from becoming major academic obstacles.
Teach about
real-world effects
Students should be made aware of how small differences in scores can affect college admissions and career opportunities. Career counselling, workshops, and exam preparation guidance can help students navigate competitive systems more effectively.
Reduce pressure
on a single exam
In many education systems, a single test carries overwhelming weight. Universities and examination boards could work towards distributing evaluation weight across multiple assessments to ensure that one bad exam does not derail a student’s future.
Change the system
Universities should consider making admissions more flexible to reduce stress on students.
By creating a system where marks are part of a bigger learning journey, students can focus on improving their skills rather than worrying about every single mark. Making these changes will not only help students do better in academics but also develop resilience, confidence, and a love for learning.
(The writer is a first-year BA.LLB student at Kare Law College, Margao)
