Dumb Kids Class By Mark Bowden Analysis

In his essay "Dumb Kids Class", Mark Bowden argues about society's stereotypes of "dumb" and "smart" kids in order to prove the existence of division of intelligence in public and private schools around the globe. When thinking of a "smart" kid, the mind immediately goes to the image of child holding multiple academic awards and degrees. A "dumb" kid is an exact opposite: a child who goofs around in with straight F's down a report card. In Bowden's experience, that is how he and his "dumb" classmates were viewed as in their school, while the "smart" kids were hailed and respected in their work. The image of a dumb kid is usually spread throughout the media and much of pop culture, as a possible ploy to get kids to take education seriously. "Dumb" students are left out of teacher's concern when teaching certain subjects; therefore, a majority have " . . . the burden of expectation lifted," all in which get rested onto the "smarter" kids of the class (para 3). Opposite of the "dumb" kids are the "smart" kids, who are respected by teachers and are seen as great successors for the future. As a "smart" kid, it is much more easier to get the help and attention when needed, as people would do anything to keep grades as …show more content…
Though society may not know it, mentally separating children by only intelligence can lead to multiple disadvantages to both sides. "Dumb" kids are brushed off as unworthy of teacher's attention and the works that do show true potential are often thrown away. It gives these students the feeling that no matter how hard they try to work, nothing would be good enough for the teachers to recognize them. While for the "smart" students, many begin to accept that grades are more important than their mental health, which begins to wither due to all the pressure and expectations of perfection dropped on by their