In Praise of the "F" Word

Mary Sherry's "In Praise of the 'F' Word" explores the theory that states if a teacher uses the power to fail as a motivator, kids will be focused on school. She explains that in order to do well in school, school itself should be the student's priority. As a teacher of remedial and creative writing, Sherry has the experience and wisdom to thoroughly analyze the passing along of students.
Sherry begins her article by explaining how meaningless a high school diploma has become. She explains that some of the graduates are semiliterate because of the no child left behind mentality. She discusses her fault in blaming lack of focus on divorce and drugs prior to teaching. Sherry proposes a solution to the lack of focus. She tells a short story about a teacher who threatened to fail her child. The child finished the class with an a and the example proved that if teachers threaten children with the possibility of failure, then the children will be more focused on school.
I also believe students are not focused. This is a great technique that will serve as a motivator for the children. Deep down in a teenager's racing mind, failure is not an option. So when they are hit with the reality of becoming a flunk, they quickly catch on to whatever material is given to them. The parents support is another key component in making things work. Sherry's use of personal examples and sheer experience provides her solution with a solid base for analysis.