Invest in Your Education

10/8/2018

Students in Advanced Academics should pay to take their exams.

Do you think that's unreasonable? Here's the thing: if students pay to take their exams, they would take the classes more seriously and try hard on the exams. Right?

Before you oppose, imagine this for a minute. Go ahead, close your eyes. Suppose you own a school where you pay all the bills. There are 152 students in AP and 24 in IB in your school. AP exams cost $94 per exam. IB exams cost $199, plus there is a registration fee of $172 per IB exam. For the amount of students signed up to take the exams, that is a bill of $23,192 that you have to pay!

But it's fine. The students are worth it. But wait...we're still imagining. On exam day, all the IB students show, but of the 152 AP students who exams have been paid for, only 42 show up to sit for the exam.

Wait...it gets better.

Of the 42 that show up to take the exam, only 25 actually attempt the exam. The rest, rest. They sleep the entire exam. So you paid $23,192 for 49 students to take an exam. Hold on...our math is off. For any unused exams, there is a $15 return fee for AP exams. So, if you had to return 127 exams, you actually paid $25,097 for 25 students to take an exam that 152 were supposed to take.

Yikes!

Why aren't students taking these high stakes exams that could give them a boost in college? Why are they in AP? What is the goal? The question then becomes does it not matter simply because you, the school pay person, had to pay and the student didn't? According to business expert Nadine J. Larder, "people don't appreciate what they don't have to pay for."

In some schools, students do have to pay either half or the full amount. In those schools, the turn out is almost 100%. What do you think? Should students have to pay for exams? Would they value the education they're getting more? Would they try harder in class?

Read the commentary above, then comment on the following: "What role does accountability play in shaping who we are as individuals and influencing our behavior?"

1. INCLUDE: First initial AND last name AND class period.

2. Respond in no more than 10 sentences and no less than five.

3. You MUST respond to at least TWO other posts from any student. Your replies cannot be identical comments on different posts and posting shallow comments such as "I agree" or "I disagree" will earn you a zero. Make sure your reply addresses the comment that you are responding to.
Be sure to--

Be clear about your position
Provide specific support for your argument
Use rhetorical devices and other grammar elements
Write EPIC Content-Engaging, Powerful, Informative, Creative

CAUTION!! Do NOT embarrass me, yourself, your class, the English department, the school or your parents with tasteless, meaningless comments. This is for a grade.

DISCLAIMER: If you do not respond AND comment on TWO others, you will not receive credit for this assignment. It's all or nothing.

Due: Fri., October 12, 2018 11:59 p.m. CST

135 Comments

J James 6th Period

10/11/2018 01:18:18 pm

Accountability plays a major role in what shapes us as a person and how we carry ourselves as individuals. Most people who are found very accountable are often more mature for their age and also have goals that require a lot of work and dedication. These people are the great leaders we see, like Dr. King or even our former president Barack Obama. On the other hand, people who aren't as accountable are usually very playful and oblivious to reality. This describes most of the students that attend this school. Irresponsibility is the leading cause of a person's downfall.

J. Griffith 2nd period

10/11/2018 06:35:03 pm

I agree completely because accountability is the major thing that makes people seem and act more mature than they really are compared to those around them. Maturity is the primary directive of accountability.

J. Mills 2nd pd.

10/12/2018 09:04:45 pm

I do not agree with your statement because accountability doesn't make someone more mature. I think accountability just makes a person make better decisions based upon what they're responsible for.

L.Allen 2nd Period

10/11/2018 08:27:58 pm

I totally agree that not just being playful is a affect to being accountable but maturity being the root that makes who your are responsible for what you do and don't do which we lack in at Lancaster High School because of influences which the culture of music plays a big part in with the industry being as big as it is today.

T.Harris 6th

10/11/2018 09:59:27 pm

This is totally understandable yes it does shape us and it will show a person how mature you are by how u accountable you are in a situation. we definitely lack this trait at schools as if many kids aren't raised right and become very immature for their age because being accountable for their own actions isn't something they have to do at home.

A. Johnson

10/12/2018 10:46:10 am

Yes, a lot of us lack accountability because we are in denial of everything, it all starts at home, your mom should teach you to speak up if you make a mistake, and learn from it.

A. Johnson

10/12/2018 10:43:36 am

I totally agree, accountability goes a long way in life, it makes you as a person, learning from your mistakes and moving on from them. You can learn many things from someone that is responsible, because they get everything taken care of.

D.Gadson

10/12/2018 11:02:17 am

This is a absolute true statement you made. It’s noticeable to see the difference between people who is accountable of theirselves and who not. Maturity plays a important part in being accountable as well.

T.falls 6th

10/12/2018 07:47:58 pm

I agree with the statement that people who hold their self accountable are more mature. That’s because we know how to depict right from wrong because we take the consequences of are actions into play. Causing us to think in ways that are counterparts don’t think .

N. Medina 6th

10/12/2018 08:17:42 pm

I agree because when someone takes accountability for their actions they become mature and trust worthy adults and those who are not are childish and immature.

K. Banks 6th

10/12/2018 11:20:07 pm

Accountability does show maturity in someone whereas if they didn’t have it they’ll be seen as incompetent.

J. Griffith 2nd period

10/11/2018 06:23:56 pm

The role that accountability plays in shaping who we are as individuals and influencing our behavior is accountability plays a big part in the lives of many individuals.Due to accountability having a big role in peoples lives, it starts to influence how people think and act. Accountability tends to give an individual a sense of responsibility. In retrospect, the individual is accountable for whatever happens to them or the people they provide and care for in their daily lives. That doesn't mean they're at fault for whatever happens around them.

L.Allen 2nd Period

10/11/2018 08:38:22 pm

I disagree, because even though he/she not responsible for what happen around them they should take in consideration the privileges they are given such as waivers,free exams,etc. If you are not taking advantage of your free education how will high school students learn to be responsible,grateful, and take control of the opportunities given to them if these teenagers so immature, childish and careless these days.

T.Harris

10/11/2018 10:02:59 pm

This is where the parents downfall starts when your kids isn't taught from you they will learn wrong from other places .accountability will make you fall short in life if you don't take use it in the right ways.

Makayla Jimerson

10/12/2018 05:30:29 am

I agree because accountability is everything in everyday life, and it all goes back to how the parents raise these kids

D Parker 8th

10/12/2018 08:09:44 am

Parents can only do so much when they try to teach their kids. It is up to the child whether or not they will listen and do as their parents say. Calling a parent a failure for their child's chosen transgressions is still shifting blame and not holding the real culprit responsible. This statement is contradictory because of that.

S.Johnsons 7th/8th

10/12/2018 10:19:25 pm

Parents can only teach you so much and it is left up to the child to determine what he/she wants to do. A child is around others than they are around their parents in a week. Therefore, whatever the parent may be saying may be tuned out because the child is listening to other things around them. It does not make sense to hold the parent hostage for something a child obviously has done.

N.Brown8th

10/12/2018 10:28:43 pm

I agree that accountability plays a big role in our lives as young people .However I disagree with the fact that there are so many options and opportunities passed up because they aren’t looking around.

L.Allen 2nd Period

10/11/2018 08:21:32 pm

Accountability is a element that our school lack in not just in academics but in life also. In addition, teenage adults in high school are so protective of their name meaning he/she will not tolerate disrespect and if they do receive the disrespect does it always mean solving the problem with our fist and foul language....I think not. High School students in the modern day era take pride in reputations and images rather than knowledge being their weapon of power. Why teenagers walk down these schools hall with all the confidence and in the world but have a shortage in education an wanting to learn? As a high student, I believe the reason we struggle with education and tests is because understanding the concepts can be difficult especially if your learning style is different from the teachers and classmates, also tests,exams,CFA's, etc can be stressful. Lastly, accountability shapes us as individuals by building character of who we are and making us into leaders as we as people were born to be. Accountability is not only what we do but also what we do not do for which we take full responsibility either way.

J. Mills 2nd pd.

10/12/2018 09:12:30 pm

I strongly disagree with your statement, because I don't see how accountability has anything to do with a person's reputation. I would say that accountability correlates with a person's work ethic and how maybe a group member or classmate views them.

T.falls 6th

10/12/2018 11:19:03 pm

I agree with summer that parents can only teach you so much.This is a true statement but you can give a person the skills they need but that doesn’t mean that they are going to use them. Other kids are very influential in other kids lives causing them to act in ways that they’re friends act forgetting about what their parents taught them.

T.Harris 6th

10/11/2018 09:52:12 pm

It plays a big role because it will show how we are as a person. If people were more accountable when it comes to their action we would have a smaller crime rate. People who are accountable are mature when it comes to decision making. These people tend to look at situations Differently from people with just doesn’t care what happens next. When it comes to this act test if kids payed for it their selfs the passing rate would be amazing only because their investing their own money into a test. I am accountable for putting gas in my car so when people act as if it was a big deal to give me gas money I just let them know “you are more than welcome to walk”. No gas does not run on smiles and good talk so my duty as the owner is to keep gas in the car because i am accountable for it .

T. Young 2nd period

10/12/2018 07:26:30 pm

I agree that more accountable people are mature and very bright when it comes to decision making. More responsible people take pride in what they do and what they’re going to do.

S. Lara

10/12/2018 11:59:26 pm

I agree they take more pride in what they do but some may not be financially stable and will try their best even without having to pay that price.

J. Perez 6th pd

10/12/2018 08:25:26 pm

Accountability and maturity go hand in hand. One can not hold themselves accountable and lack maturity and vice versa. So it's true the more you hold yourself accountable the more mature your decisions are and the more you care. For example, if you were given free money to fill up your gas tank you'd probably drive more often than you would if you were the one who paid.

N.Brown8th

10/12/2018 10:32:34 pm

I disagree about the crime rate. Crime rate will not go down because their will always be another reason to fight. But I do agree decision making comes into play with accountability.

J. Mills 2nd pd.

10/12/2018 01:46:40 am

I think students should have to pay for the exams. I think having to pay for the exams will make students take the classes needed for the exam more seriously and also the exam itself. If students paid to take their exam I am sure they wouldn't fall asleep on it. I feel like a downside would be less taking the exam because of the price, some students only come because the exam is free and if they fail it won't effect their GPA. Making students pay would still be a better decision, but there should be certain rules or requirements in place to ensure people try their best as if the exam were a STAAR test. After all, it does help them greatly in the future if they do good on it.

T.Jones 2nd

10/12/2018 06:36:40 pm

I completely agree. Requiring the students to pay for the exams make them more responsible during class and during test time.

T. Young 2nd period

10/12/2018 07:22:39 pm

I agree with you that students will take the class more seriously when in the end they’ll have to pay for the test. When people have to include their money into a situation that’s going to become their first priority.

N. Medina 6th

10/12/2018 08:21:09 pm

I completely agree because paying for the exams will make students pay attention and become responsible in their education. Many students take these Ap classes for the fact that it raises their GPA and class rank but they never take it seriously because they do not have the responsibility of paying for it.

J.Hurd 2nd

10/12/2018 10:24:19 pm

I agree with you. A lot of people currently in AP classes don't take these tests very seriously. Many people go to sleep during these test or they don't even try their best. However, if they have to pay for these test people would study more and try to be successful on the test.

Makayla Jimerson 2nd pd

10/12/2018 05:20:43 am

Accountability should define who you are just like everything else you do should. Whatever you do in your daily life can follow yo for the rest of your life. I believe Texas should pay for their own test because I think Texas has forgotten independence, so by making the pay for their own test would help tremendously.

D Parker 1st

10/12/2018 07:58:09 am

I don't think this response completely answers the question. There is no focus on the behavior of students and Texas's so-called lack of independence has nothing to do with this. In fact, if Texas were to separate itself from the U.S. it would not be able to financially support itself and students would receive substandard education and likely be required to pay for their schooling.

D.Gadson

10/12/2018 11:12:54 am

Although you forgot to answer the whole prompt. I agree that our decisions do follow us for the rest of our lives. I don’t think your comparison with independence and Texas was accurate with your point you’re trying to convey.

D Parker 8th

10/12/2018 07:32:21 am

Students should not be required to pay for exams because education is required to make a name for yourself and earn a livable wage and not all students can afford to pay thousands a year in order to test. Furthermore, we do not deserve to be punished because our classmates do not put forth the effort to show up to test dates or make up days or attempt to get the right answers. The only accountability students need to take for not properly taking their tests is their bad grades and lack of credits. This is punishment enough and can influence their behavior in response to their failures. It is unjust and unfair to deny someone the right to a proper rudimentary education because they cannot afford it.

J James 6th Period

10/12/2018 01:04:01 pm

I agree with your position of the cost. Everyone should have the right to take a test that will put them ahead in college and possibly in life for free. No one should penalized because they cant pay for the test.

R. Garcia 8th

10/12/2018 05:27:59 pm

I agree. Also, charging students who are economically disadvantaged would serve as a deterrent for them taking the test. This could mean they would not only be economically disadvantaged but also academically disadvantaged when they decide to go to college.

I. Jones 6th Per.

10/12/2018 06:42:42 pm

I disagree. If the school is spending thousands on thousands of dollars for AP students who don't even bother to take the exam seriously, why should the school keep funding them with the opportunity to take the exams for free ? They (the students) should pay for their own exam and we'll see if they take it seriously then.

G. Musa 6th period

10/12/2018 08:15:14 pm

Education as varied and changed over the past years. I mean I'm on both sides on this we shouldn't have to pay if we don't want to but also if you pay you receive more. People don't like wasting money only to fail that's just money wasted there's a 50% chance of passing.

S. Sanders- 1st Period

12/7/2018 11:16:09 pm

I agree that people do not like wasting money and in today’s society do not desire to have to pay for exams. In professional careers certification exams cost, but then those exams are for the working whom gets to choose to purchase to gain a certification of expertise in the area. I believe students having to pay for test would decrease student outcomes in striving for excellency.

M. Cain 2nd

10/12/2018 09:35:08 pm

I agree with you that every student shouldn't be penalized because some students choose not to take the test. I also agree that every student may not be able to pay the fees for their test.

I. Chancellor 7th/8th period

10/12/2018 11:29:40 pm

In agreement, students should not have to pay for exams, because education is suppose to be free and affordable, for everyone. Plus, education is suppose to lead us to our future career. To be honest, it is despicable to punish everybody, for a small percentage of people, who do not care. Not only their bad grades and lack of credits, but also missed opportunities to expand their minds. With all honesty, it will because they will get tired of bad things happening to them, as a result of their bad behavior. Lastly, we have to look at people’s financial stance, which will show us that, a lot of students cannot afford, to pay for individual exams.

S. Sanders- 1st Period

12/7/2018 11:20:54 pm

Great response! This is exactly how I feel with the addition that students having to pay for tests would decrease so there would changes in students in AP classes too. Most wouldn’t be able to afford. So, paying for the test though wouldn’t increase passing because as with professional certification exams one would have to make a certain score to pass. People would still potentially fail a test and wouldn’t wont to pay to retest neither. I’m glad school and school tests are free.

Aamya Green 3rd

10/12/2018 09:26:12 am

Ap and IB students should be required to pay for there own exams. My meaning behind that is they decided to be in those programs they aren’t required curriculum in the free public school system. Also on top of that including that was said many don’t even pass the exam or try so it’s a major waste of money, but if it was coming out of the pockets of parents or the student himself they would take it more seriously. It can be likened to paying for college, if it was free many probably wouldn’t take it serious. But since it’s very expensive many put there best foot forward.

D. Tonche 8th pd

10/12/2018 01:51:53 pm

Aamya I like the point about how these classes are not necessary but are beneficial for you as a student. Students should be in charge of their education and determine if they want to go through AP/IB curriculum or not. This way they can take their education more seriously.

R. Garcia 8th

10/12/2018 05:51:53 pm

I believe you make a good point and to a certain extent I agree with your statement. However, while the programs are not required, they are beneficial to students. They allow students to pay less for college and allow them to graduate quicker. Requiring students to pay for these tests and specially students who are financially disadvantaged may deter them from taking the test, leading them to spend more money for college.

I. Chancellor 7th/8th period

10/12/2018 08:15:20 pm

In disagreement, AP and IB students should not have to pay for their exams. With all honesty, those classes challenge the way you think, and still should identify with free public school system. To be honest, students can still fail the test, regardless if they paid or not. I would not use college students , because majority of college students play around in college, regardless if they paid or got a full paid scholarship. Lastly, even if you do pay for your IB or AP exam, will not determine, you are going to do better, than someone who did not.

T.Tate 8th

10/12/2018 10:37:18 pm

I Strongly agree, college students pay to go to college and still play around and don’t care about their education. I believe putting a price on something doesn’t make someone want it more because they paid for it .Its about how much you want it as a student ,how bad you want to succeed ,and how determined you are about it.

T.Jones 2nd

10/12/2018 10:32:46 am

Accountability is the primary role in shaping who we are as individuals and influencing our behavior. The people who are more accountable typically encounter more opportunities in life. They receive the highest education, the best paying jobs, and are usually looked at as leaders. Accountability influences our behavior such as our decision making process. A person has to decide whether to spend their money on a outfit or paying for a exam that will help them be successful later in life. In schools, students should be required to pay for their own exams for 2 reasons. One, students will take the test more serious. Two, they are investing in their own futures.

J James 6th period

10/12/2018 01:06:59 pm

I agree with you when you say that accountability influences behavior. When you have people depending on you or have more responsibilities, your most likely to be more mature.

D. Tonche 8th pd

10/12/2018 01:48:03 pm

You make valid points in your comment, students should pay for their exams. This would encourage to take it more seriously and pay attention in class.

Gonzalez J 2nd

10/12/2018 04:37:32 pm

I agree with you because the ones who are more accountable are the ones who are on point and do whatever they need to to succeed and distance themselves away from those who aren't

I. Jones 6th Per.

10/12/2018 06:36:35 pm

I totally agree with you sating that having the students pay for their exams will push them to take the test more seriously.

J.Hurd 2nd

10/12/2018 10:28:19 pm

If students started putting the same amount of energy and money into school and all the other distractions they would be better off on test.

B. Haynes 8th

10/12/2018 10:55:14 pm

I agree. Having to directly pay for your own chance to test will make you take it more seriously than you would if you didn’t have to pay for it.

A. Johnson

10/12/2018 10:50:47 am

Accountability, and responsibility shows a lot about a person, but it all starts at home and how you are raised. Nowadays kids aren’t taught at home, this generation is crazy.

M Taylor 1st period

10/12/2018 04:07:44 pm

Accountability and responsibility presents a handful of things about us as a person yes but how you’re raised isn’t they was that comes about atall there is some kids that grows up in the “hood” or “ghetto” and shows more respect that a prissy caucasian ever could have been or could be because things are handed to them not earned

Gonzalez J 2nd

10/12/2018 04:35:39 pm

I disagree with you because responsibility and accountability does mostly come from where you were raised. When we are young we have a role model that we look up to mimicking them and growing up and acting like them in certain ways. And how they raise you is how you come out to be. So that "prissy Caucasian" was not raised the right way and the kids from the "hood" and "ghetto" were raised different.

J.Perez 6th period

10/12/2018 08:18:23 pm

I believe accountability and responsibility can be learned over time or through situations. For example you're more responsible now (hopefully) than what you were as a child. Then you have cases with children who take accountability for their parents actions. Some even taking on jobs because their parents have no sense of responsibility as adults. That being said it doenst always have to do with how you were raised or how you were taught.

T.Tate 8th

10/12/2018 10:44:16 pm

I do agree with accountability and responsibility showing a lot about a person ,but a child can be raised wonderfully and still can get influenced to do the opposite of how they were raised .

D.Gadson 6th

10/12/2018 10:57:33 am

Accountability plays a major role in our lives to shape who we are and behavioral decisions. We choose to do what we desire by our choice and nobody else. It shows who we are as a person. Also giving us opportunities in life because of what we do. How we act or respond is what our mindset is set to things. For example, when it comes to test it’s up to us if we want to complete the test since it was provided for free. On the other hand if we payed to take our test we will take it serious.

M. Sanchez 6thpd

10/12/2018 04:56:18 pm

It is our choice and our own actions that give other people an idea of who we are. Just because we all pay for something does not mean we will take it serious. If the exam was something kids had to pay for there would be less than 100 students because parents do not want to have to pay that. The ones that do want to take it will and maybe then the teachers will make more of an effort to teach. However, it is our choice even if we pay for it, but not everyone can pay for it.

C.Capel

10/12/2018 07:59:05 pm

I agree,and responsibility plays a huge role. To pay for your exams will ensure your attendance.

T. Jones 2nd

10/12/2018 06:39:23 pm

I agree. responsibilitity comes with accountability. Making students pay will ensure their attendance.

D. Tonche 8th pd.

10/12/2018 01:45:25 pm

Accountability definitely plays a role in shaping us into individuals. If we can accept when we are at fault in a argument, or when you made a mistake this make you a well-rounded individual that people can trust on. For example, if students don’t show up to an AP or IB exam that tells us that this student does not care for their education. All that time preparing and the money for the test was wasted on nothing. Another thing we have to take into consideration is why would a student miss on a beneficial opportunity like this. As a student who was in AP classes and IB classes I can say without a doubt that the environment of the classroom determines the motivation a student has towards their work. To summarize, accountability is a defining characteristic that an individual should have.

M. Sanchez 6thpd

10/12/2018 05:04:05 pm

If a student doesn't show up to a test it doesn't mean that they don't care about there education if anything there are a thousands reasons they could have missed. Or it could be that they were not properly taught all the material that they need for the test. The test are somewhat harder then actual classes in colleges and the timing for each section is dumb. However, you can still tell if a person is accountable if they show up even when the material was not taught properly.

I. Florence 8th

10/12/2018 08:31:58 pm

Students do not realize the time and money that is spent on making the test available. This is very inconsiderate.

Jniquea jackson

10/12/2018 09:38:51 pm

That is a choice. Just like it’s a choice to be in that class. The teachers , the administrators, etc don’t realize how hard the test are. Just because they make the test don’t mean anything that’s a choice to do that job . Just like it’s a choice to be in ap or regular.

S.Johnson 7th/8th

10/12/2018 10:15:30 pm

Students do not bother to realize all the effects of them not taking the tests. They have wasted their time, the teachers times, the schools money, and the people who monitor the tests time. Students always look for an excuse instead of just owning up to what needs to be done.

M Taylor 1st period

10/12/2018 03:55:52 pm

i feel as if exams period should not have to be paid for at all... its waste of money because what if you fail then what ??? a refund :/ no.. but i guess.. accountability forms the shaping of a person as well as the discussions made and behavior.. some people don’t appreciate when thing are boosted for them or actually done for them.. handed to them.. this actually reminds me of the saying Mrs.D says “ if I give you a fish you’ll be fed for a day if i teach you how to fish you’ll be fed for a life time” meaning things can’t just be handed to you or you’ll possibly take it for granted and you’ll expect it.. so yes students should come out of their own pockets to pay for exams but then again most can’t do that due to financial problems so they could make it fair those few that takes it seriously could be offered to be paid for n others pay for themselves so it can be put to proper use and no money to waste if they decide to test

C.Capel

10/12/2018 07:57:24 pm

Agreed, I don’t feel you should take it if you don’t want . Then again,why are you in that class . For just rank?

G. Musa 6th period

10/12/2018 08:11:49 pm

If you want something you always need a motto to keep pushing towards your goal. I agree with your statement,you shouldn't have to take it and pay only to fail that's money wasted.

Jniquea jackson

10/12/2018 09:36:01 pm

I totally agree with both statements. The exams givin are extremely hard. Why would you pay for a test to most my fail.Yes in my opinion the test are not made for you too pass. Your just throwing money down the drain.

Gonzalez J 2nd

10/12/2018 04:30:51 pm

I believe accountability shapes humans in a way that matures us to be more responsible and creates us to be and act more like a grown up ergo influencing our behavior to be as of a leader. I don't expect students to pay for the AP exam because most students didn't ask to be put in AP. The school chose to place these students in AP classes and when some students ask to be taken out the class, the school requires multiple signatures in order to get them out. And 9 times out of 10 the student is denied permission to get out. AP classes are a lot of work especially if you have multiple of them. So when the students ask to be taken out in the beginning and the school forces them to take it and then when they don't take the test serious the school blames the students when they were the ones who asked to be taken out from the get-go .

M. Sanchez 6thpd.

10/12/2018 04:51:25 pm

Accountability shows a lot about a person. When a person hold accountability to their own actions regardless of whether they are good or bad more it shows the person is trustworthy. It can shape who you are because if your actions will always show and you won't try to cover anything. Accountability is held in relationships with those around you including your job. If you are not accountable it would be unlikely for you to get a job with a major company. Not only does it shape you but it shapes your future.

J. Chandler 6th

10/12/2018 11:03:50 pm

I hadn’t thought about it connecting to occupation but I agree. Your held accountable to get to work on time and do your job correctly and if you don’t you would get fired.

T. Young 2nd period

10/12/2018 05:03:44 pm

Accountability plays a huge role in shaping who we are as individuals and influencing our behavior. When people are accountable for their actions and responsibilities they cherish them and what they get out of it. Being liable for your own actions allows people to mature and act as a leader to those around them. We have our own mind and everything we value and things that will benefit us in the long run we’ll be the first ones in line and that’s where accountability comes in and actually having a strong mindset to push yourself no matter what. To summarize, everybody should have accountability threw everything they do no matter if it’s good or bad because it’s the choices by you that were made so ownership should be taken.

R. Garcia 8th

10/12/2018 05:12:40 pm

Accountability excites action; it serves as a motivating factor to our actions and our behavior. When a person is accountable they are placed in a mind set where they are responsible for their own success. They do not blame their environment, other people, or simply their bad luck for their failures. Therefore, they are more inclined to work harder and due to this, are more successful. Not only this, but in the case of the exams, students who pay are held accountable by the price they pay for the exams. If they were not to attend, they would end up losing money, therefore the money spent motivates them to attend.

I. Florence 8th

10/12/2018 08:33:37 pm

I absolutely agree. When people are accountable they care about their actions and behavior.

M. Cain 2nd

10/12/2018 09:25:16 pm

I completely agree with you about accountability exciting action. People do work harder when they know that if it doesn't get done it's nobody's fault but theirs.

K. Phillips 6th

10/12/2018 10:45:15 pm

That’s all the way true because sometimes people don’t care about there action no matter who’s fault it is. For some people, I’d they don’t want to do it then they jus won’t do it at all.

B. Haynes 8th

10/12/2018 10:57:47 pm

Exactly. Accountability acts as a catalyst for people to actually put in time and effort on something since their success is dependent on no one else but them.

T.falls 6 th

10/12/2018 06:09:37 pm

Accountability plays a major role in shaping who you are because it shows you who you actually are as a person. If your not holding your self accountable you can’t be trusted because trust comes from within. When life gives you a situation that comes with a valuable lesson you will miss the lessons because you are not being responsible for your action. Also if you know your going to be held accountable for a situation it will make you think harder to determine if it’s worth doing or not.Being accountable is not something that’s is learned but rather taught and inspired by parents.

I.Jones 6th Per.

10/12/2018 06:33:15 pm

Accountability plays a major role in students lives. Having students pay for their AP exam will definitely motivate and push them to do their best, which holds them accountable for their success. If the test is already paid for by the school, students will not take the test seriously. I remember it was either last year or my sophomore year the students in AP classes had exams and some of them did not take it seriously at all. Some skipped the exams and some went and just slept through the whole testing period. They didn't hold themselves accountable to pass or to even try to take the exam. To sum everything up, accountability serves as a motivating factor to our actions and behavior.

I. Chancellor 7th/8th period

10/12/2018 07:46:34 pm

It plays a major role, in developing who we are and what we do. Accountability keeps us grounded, which simply means it keeps us from doing what we are not supposed to do. For example, you had to do your homework, and you did not feel like doing your homework, accountability will come in and make you do it. Another example, if you know that you or somebody paid for your test and you did not want to take it, accountability will come in and make you take the test. With all honesty, having accountability is the best thing you can have, due to it keeping you from doing bad.

M Martinez 3rd

10/12/2018 10:48:47 pm

Continuing from what you said, accountabilty does shape us to be more aware. We’re able to see what we aren't supposed to be doing.

C. Capel

10/12/2018 07:55:11 pm

Accountability and discipline play a huge role. Most of us pay for SAT and/or ACT or you get a fee waiver for 2 of each and if you want to keep taking it you have to pay . I believe exams that are beneficial to college should /could be paid for because you’re paying for something that is good for your future. I believe that your mindset is what decides what and how you feel . If the exams are already paid for and you didn’t want to take it then that’s a waste . Where as if you had to pay if you wanted to take it then it would be different . I just believe if you’re not planning on working towards something in a specific class why be in that class?

N. Medina 6th

10/12/2018 08:00:14 pm

Having students in Ap classes pay for their test makes them more responsible and they can take accountability for their score. If you do not hold yourself accountable for the things you do then you won’t succeed. If the students pay for their test then they will be able to actually try in the test and have a 100% of the students to show up to it. The fact that so much money is spent on test that less than half of the students show up is ridiculous. Taking accountability helps students become mature and take responsibility for their important tasks.

J.Perez 6th period

10/12/2018 08:03:01 pm

Accountability plays a huge role in shaping who we are as individuals. If we hold ourselves accountable for our actions we are more responsible in character. That's where we as human beings get divided into two different groups. Those who hold themselves accountable and those who don't. Those who hold themselves accountable are more aware and thoughtful about their actions thus making themselves respected individuals. Those who dont are the ones who love to point the finger at someone else instead of taking responsibility for their actions.

C.Williams 6th prd

10/12/2018 10:35:08 pm

Non accountable people are always the ones pointing the finger at someone else but have 3 pointing back at them. They never take responsibility for their actions.

K. Phillips 6th

10/12/2018 10:41:24 pm

I agree. Responsible kids most likely make responsibile adult which is what is needed in the world we are growing up in.

M Martinez 3rd

10/12/2018 10:47:29 pm

Theres two different types of people in this world like you say. Ones that are honest and accountable and ones who just don't care.

M. Hollywood 2nd

10/12/2018 11:02:21 pm

People who aren’t held accountable feel entitled to just being giving things. They also begin to put the blame on someone else because they lack accountability skills.

G. Musa 6th period

10/12/2018 08:07:47 pm

Discipline and morals comes to life during such times. If someone has to pay for their test and class they are at least 50% more alert than usual.Accountability plays a role, when AP testers have to pay they either bomb the test or pass it mainly depends on one moral and motivation. If you can hold yourself accountable for things good or bad you are mature enough and trustworthy. The SAT & ACT are test kids take fully prepared or not just to get it over with.

I. Florence 8th

10/12/2018 08:29:56 pm

Accountability shapes who we are as individual and influences our behavior because it makes us mindful of the people who spend their time on us and makes us commit to task we signed up for. When someone spends their time orchestrating something for you, you should show them that you care. You can show this by attending the event, telling them thank, praising them for their efforts, etc.. Many advanced academic students purposely miss test. This is not taking accountability because they do not care about the time and money that was spent on making the test available.

D. Hearne 8th

10/12/2018 10:01:37 pm

Any IB student who took physics last year shouldn't have been forced to take an AP test. That was a hiccup on the AP program's behalf.

M. Cain 2nd

10/12/2018 09:22:27 pm

Accountability plays a huge role in shaping who we are as individuals. Take accountability for your actions forces you to grow up and realize that sometimes you are the problem. It also shows you how to value your work. If you never have to take accountability for yourself you won't get far in life, especially in the workforce. If you constantly find a way to place the blame on everyone else then you'll never grow in life.

C.Williams 6th prd

10/12/2018 10:33:00 pm

Not being accountable will most definitely not get you far in life, it will only hold you back.

Jniquea jackson

10/12/2018 09:32:33 pm

I honestly do not believe students should pay for exams . A school come with a lot of responsibility. In that responsibility mean doing for the student then that’s what it should be. I believe accountability play a role in the administrator end. I truly do not believe the student is accountable for the payment of the test. If school is free like it be all free. Some are not able to pay for the test and etc . Some may have to mind set but not the financial means. Being responsible fir supposedly paying for a test should define you.

D. Hearne 8th

10/12/2018 10:08:19 pm

If a student is unable to come up with the funds to pay for the test they could apply for a fee waiver. Making students pay for the test would be good for the student because they would actually take the test and try to pass so that they didn't waste money. If it's not coming out of their pocket, they wouldn't care and would just show up for a participant grade. If you made the choice to be in AP, you should take up the responsibility of an AP student.

Estevan Salas 6th

10/12/2018 10:41:50 pm

As Ms.Hearne said, fee waivers can be applied to students that do not have sufficient funds. We are literally living examples of what not paying for our tests make. Half of us go to sleep, the other 40% of us TRY to complete the exam and the other 10% do. Having us all spend $100 on a test will increase the amount of people that try and succeed on a test. Other schools are living examples of this beause they pay for them and have almost a 100% passing rate. How could you explain that?

J.Maple 8th

10/12/2018 09:49:27 pm

Accountability shapes the professional and social facets of our lives. Being more accountable leads to success in leadership roles, success in the classroom and workplace, and success in the structuring of your homelife. If a person can be relied upon to do their homework or work responsibilities every time, on time, as well as taking care of any assigned tasks at home, then the chances of you having more opportunities and freedoms will increase. An accountable person is more mature, and will be treated as such by peers or superiors. Being accountable earns and gives repect from others, and it affects the way you handle and respond to situations.

D. Hearne 8th

10/12/2018 09:59:03 pm

If someone is not held responsible for anything they usually sit back, relax, and do what they want. There is no standard for them to follow so they are less likely to be a strategic person. Those who are accountable, have plans set out for the tasks they are given. Accountability creates a well rounded person because it keeps them keen on what needs to be done.

M.Hollywood 2nd

10/12/2018 10:59:32 pm

Yes people who don’t have roles or are held accountable for anything act lazy. This develops poor work habits.

S.Johnson 7th/8th

10/12/2018 10:12:27 pm

Accountability plays a major role in decision making and behavior. If we know that nothing will be done based on our actions, then people will continue to do the same things.They have no set task on what they want to do because they know nothing will change. Yet holding someone accountable will cause a shift in ones actions because they will become adamant getting stuff done in a timely manner. Also taking accountability for things show you how to value work and grow into a better person in the workforce. In conclusion, accountability creates a mature, versatile person.

Estevan Salad

10/12/2018 10:29:19 pm

Accountability and responsibility go hand and hand. Making someone responsible for the money they wasted hurts. Therefore making us pay the full amount will influence us to not waste our hard earned minimun wage money.

Estevan Salas 6th

10/12/2018 10:30:08 pm

oops

J Butler 6th

10/12/2018 11:14:02 pm

I agree accountability is an important way of keeping someone trustworthy and honest. Without it people would not do the right thing.

Estevan Salas 6th

10/12/2018 10:27:35 pm

I think the students/parents paying for the exams have a extreme difference than the school paying for the exam. Imagine being a parent and paying $100 for a test just for your kid to SLEEP! Parents holding their kids accountable for their actions in the end make the greatest differences. The difference between $20 and $100 or even $200 is not just the cash itself, but also wasting the cash. Schools literally throw away money on AP tests that either students werent prepared for or dont try on is sad. Make us pay full price.

J. Chandler 6th

10/12/2018 11:00:31 pm

I don’t think that students should pay full price because everyone might not be able to do so financially. It would be a disadvantage to the students who really want to take it but jus can’t afford it.

M. Chavez

10/12/2018 11:37:53 pm

No, I don’t agree one bit. Some people may not be financially stable enough to pay full price. One reason they are taking an AP class, is to get the credit, FOR FREE, so they won’t have to pay for the class in college. If you believe this, why don’t you pay for all of the tests yourself? It shouldn’t be a few students to ruin the whole opportunity for those who actually need it. Why are they in the AP class if they arnt going to try? that’s on the school for not letting the students get out of AP classes, when they KNOW they arnt up for it, Lancaster High School for example, with few exemptions.

C.Williams 6th prd

10/12/2018 10:31:37 pm

Accountability plays a major role in shaping us as individuals. Being accountable makes you more of a mature and reliable person, you are most likely to be trusted and relied on. It forces you to do things in a timely and timely manner. All of these things can lead you into becoming a great employee and organized person. Being accountable leads you into the road of success and greatness.

K. Phillips 6th

10/12/2018 10:38:35 pm

Accountability plays a major part in our life when it comes to shaping us . It allows you to mature and be reliable . When your accountable you take responsibility for your actions and grow out of your childish ways . It holds you to a higher standard in life allowing you to see your priorities in life . People who don’t hold there self accountable are probably 28 and working at Taco Bell and that’s because they didn’t hold there self to a standard or try to mature and stop being childish and buckle down . Hold your self accountable to what you want.

M. Chavez

10/12/2018 11:29:39 pm

I completely agree with you, everything that happens is a ripple effect. One decision can make or break who we are as individuals.

N.Brown8th

10/12/2018 10:44:11 pm

Accountability helps shape who we are becoming by keeping us intrigued and focused. When you become focused your eye is on the prize so your behavior changes. Your behavior follows after your action of focusing so that you could understand the lesson . The More Focused you are the more intrigued you get in your class.Students shouldn’t have to pay to be accountable they have to long for focus . Become more intrigued in the class room lessons . If students where to pay yes they would show up but how much effort would they really put into the test.

M Martinez 3rd

10/12/2018 10:45:41 pm

Accountabilty shapes the way we are as individuals because in that way we show our peers how responsible we are. We’re aware of the consequences that come from our own decisions. We influence our selves to do better and influence the people around us. Trustworthiness and responsibility is what your peers aknowledge when known about you. This road of knowing your accountability leads to your own success in the future.

B. Haynes 8th

10/12/2018 10:52:14 pm

Accountability plays an integral role in shaping who we are as individuals, as well as how we choose to act. It can cause a different outlook on certain situations and how someone would choose to approach it. For instance, a student would most likely try on test they had to pay to take, only because they were accountable for it. Accountability matures us and teaches us about responsibility, which is a very important technique to have throughout life. To conclude, accountability acts as a catalyst for people to put in an effort into something rather than not caring.

K. Brown 8th hour

10/12/2018 11:58:42 pm

Exactly, accountability is a necessity if one wishes to grow and make progress. If one can not take responsibility for their actions than they will not grow and will remain the same way as always.

J. Chandler 6th

10/12/2018 10:52:30 pm

Accountability halls a major role in shaping the way we are as individuals. When students or young adults are held accountable for their actions they tend to be more responsible and more wise in decision making. I think it’s a good thing to make students pay for AP/ABD testing because it will lose the schools less money that they could be using for other activities needed around the school and they can ensure that the people who won’t take the class or test seriously don’t get in it. They aren’t going to pay for a test that they won’t take seriously so if the student is not willing to pay then the student is not willing to put forth the effort. And let the student who are willing to put the effort, to test their knowledge.

M.Hollywood 2nd

10/12/2018 10:57:39 pm

Accountability plays a huge part into the person you are molded into. Accountability helps you become more responsible. It helps you realize it’s a consequence of reward for every action. Respect is also earned when you can be accountable for what you do. People begin to see you as more mature and you are able to do so much more.

J. Chandler 6th

10/12/2018 10:58:55 pm

K. Banks 6th

10/12/2018 11:07:02 pm

The money wasted on non-used AP exams could go towards the use of other programs needed around the school.

T.cherry 6th period

10/12/2018 11:46:54 pm

Some points are valid in your statement but they don’t really help towards the view point. For instance when you say “it will cost the schools less money” . Of course it will but what does that have to do with the obligation of the student.

K. Banks 6th

10/12/2018 11:03:13 pm

Accountability influences our behavior by building character. It helps you show that not only are you responsible, but trustworthy too. Making students pay for the AP/IB exam will only give them the thought of taking it more seriously since their money and time could be wasted. If the school continued to pay for it, less consideration would be given. The students’ decision to effectively succeed would show their moral growth.

T.Tate 8th

10/12/2018 11:05:50 pm

Accountability plays a huge role who you are as a person and how responsible you are . Being influenced is a huge aspect in kids lives today and that stops them from obtaining their goals.Also you have to want it for yourself before anything. If you don’t have a desire to truly Want something , you will not be able to find the strength you need to stick with your plan . You would notice when you have found your purpose.There are many things you can do to strengthen your willpower.You just have to be determined about getting to where you need to be.

T.cherry 6th period

10/12/2018 11:44:25 pm

At first I felt as though you were correct with your overall thesis statement. However ,when it came down to your examples it deconstructs the point. For example when you say “being influenced is a huge aspect in kids lives”. An obligation is only a sub topic an influence.

J. Butler 6th

10/12/2018 11:12:57 pm

Accountability is a large part in a shaping a persons behaviors and decisions. If we could act without consequences then there would be no difference in wrong and right. But holding someone accountable will hold them to a standard they have to make. This goes to someone being called reliable or trusted because they can handle business at that standard for accountability.

J.hurd 2nd

10/12/2018 11:26:00 pm

Accountability can help shape us into being responsible as well as being mature. If students are being charged to take test it will make them more be accountable for themselves by increasing their motivation to take something like this serious.

M.chavez 2nd pd.

10/12/2018 11:27:18 pm

Being accountable shapes a person greatly. From a very young age, we’re told to clean up after ourselves, and keep our grades up, etc. This causes us to form habits, mostly good, and creates the idea of us being rewarded for certain things. Speaking personally, I used to try my hardest at everything I did, but i was becoming mentally and physically exhausted. Soon after, i only strived to do good enough, and stopped holding myself accountable- causing my rank to fall, and my gpa to decrease. Once I realized that only i am accountable for myself, I once again tried to do my best, and set more goals. I wanted to be the best person i could be, because i know there’s a cause and effect for everything, and it all starts with myself.

T.cherry 6th period

10/12/2018 11:39:37 pm

Accountability is another word for a dictation that restrains ones self to a set objective. So, of course it can easily effect how someone goes about there day to day life. For example, a single parent who works 40 plus hours a week doesn’t have a choice but to go to work enable for her children to get feed. However, if you were to give a teenager the option of paying for something they may or may not win they’d often not do it. You can’t push people to do anything if there is no obligation behind it. Therefore, yes accountability does work if something is truly necessary to that person

S. Lara

10/12/2018 11:54:14 pm

Accountability shapes who we are and shows that we can be responsible. However students should not have to pay for AP test because others do not show up. Students take AP classes in order to not have that extra cost in college. I’m addition some families my not be in a good financial state in order to be paying for multiple AP test. If a student wants that credit they will work for it even without the cost.

K. Brown 8th period

10/12/2018 11:57:20 pm

Accountability in every way shapes a person. Being able to accept your failures and learn from them and being able to build upon your success. We as people have to be accountable for what we do and don't do so that we may grow and learn. When one is accountable they recognize the issue(s) that may be holding back their full potential. These people will also be quicker to notice their strengths and weaknesses and therefore will go further than other people.

S. Sanders- 1st Period

12/7/2018 11:35:18 pm

Accountability do not play a role in shaping individuals and influencing our behaviors in some people. It seems those whose striving to achieve certain academic goals takes ownership to hold oneself accountable, which then is when accountability plays a role in depicting one’s character and behaviors. One has to choose to do so. Being accountable promotes one to strive to overcome, change, succeed, act in accordance to rules or guidelines to pass tests, make good grades and be appreciative whereas those who do not choose too most likely do not form a certain character of excellency neither. It is having accountability that one make plans, perform in school or work, study to pass classes, and or hope for success. As noted in the reading for reflections, when we pay for something we want or need it. So, paying for exams and even books as some college students have too; doesn’t mean the student will pass the test with a passing score. Having to pay for an exam only makes one to forsure study if he/she desire to pass the test.

Mixed Ink

Mixed Ink is our class blog, the window into our souls. It was designed to improve students' writing, critical thinking and communication skills by giving them a platform to provide meaningful content based on their interpretation of what they see.

Although the students receive a grade based on a rubric for completing this assignment, they are not graded on complexity of thought. This is a place where students of all levels can freely, confidently and creatively express themselves and their opinions in a nonjudgmental platform. They are required to respond to and critique each other, but degradation, slander, lewdness, etc., will not be tolerated.

Bridge Builders

All subjects are vital to learning, but English is the bridge of communication. So let's build the arch, one word at a time...

Grading Rubric

Learning Objectives

Communicate effectively
Be aware of current events
Write concisely
Boost critical thinking skills
Be accountable
Follow directions
Have a voice about what goes on in the world around you