Potential Benefits for Struggling Students:
* Reduced Stigma: Grades are less directly tied to numerical scores, potentially reducing the public shaming associated with low marks. A student might receive a 'D' grade instead of a failing percentage, which could be less demoralizing.
* Focus on Improvement: The grading system, theoretically, emphasizes progress and improvement over absolute achievement. A student showing significant improvement could see their grade reflect that, even if their overall performance remains relatively low.
* Less Pressure: The absence of highly competitive numerical scores might alleviate some pressure, allowing students to focus on learning rather than solely on achieving high marks.
Potential Drawbacks for Struggling Students:
* Lack of Specific Feedback: Grades alone might not provide the detailed feedback needed for struggling students to identify their weaknesses and improve. A numerical score, while potentially harsh, can sometimes offer a clearer picture of the extent of the learning gap.
* Masking Underlying Problems: A grade might mask the severity of learning difficulties or lack of fundamental understanding. A student might receive a passing grade despite significant gaps in knowledge, hindering their future academic success.
* Potential for Inconsistency: The subjective nature of grading can lead to inconsistencies across different teachers and schools, making it difficult to accurately assess a student's true academic standing.
Overall:
The effectiveness of the CBSE grading system for struggling students depends heavily on how it's implemented. If coupled with robust support systems, like individualized tutoring, detailed feedback, and differentiated instruction, the grading system *could* be beneficial. However, if used without these support systems, it could simply mask underlying problems and fail to adequately address the needs of students who are struggling. The focus should always be on providing appropriate support and intervention, regardless of the grading system used.