Ranging anywhere from “my dog ate my homework” to “I have a family reunion today,” excuses are a large part of how people sometimes cope with social and academic situations. In this package, we explore how excuses pop up in the form of body shaming, religious situations, homework amounts and grade rounding.

Up Grade: How rounding influences MVHS students

In some classes, 89.5% rounds up to an A. In others, 90% is the cut-off. Regardless of where the cut off is, MVHS students strive to achieve the highest grade they possibly can, but at times, rounding does come into the picture. How much of a role does rounding play in students’ grading process? And do students use rounding as an excuse to drop their standards for an A? Listen as two students and a staff member discuss their opinions on rounding.

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There is no excuse for body shaming

In a society where “yo mama’s so fat” jokes and size zero models are used as avenues to comment on ideal body shapes, the role of media and peers is of utmost importance. While sometimes assuming a connection between thinness and strong health is an unconscious decision, it still is an invalid way to gauge a person’s health condition. Both outside forces and internalized thoughts play a role in how body shapes are perceived and acted upon.

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Using homework as an excuse to avoid family time

In a community where education is considered the most valued of ideals, students are paying less attention to family life. Although students still talk to their families, conversations have shifted to revolving around academics, rather than leisure activities or topics unrelated to school. What are the consequences of Monta Vista students using homework as an excuse not to spend time with family?

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Religious excuses

Religion plays a huge role in today’s society. For some people, it defines their moral principles and dictates the way they live their everyday lives. But even though a person’s religion and sense of morality can vary, the excuse of religion can be used in order to escape the unwanted and as a way to dodge consequences for someone’s actions. Here is what three Monta Vista students had to say about using religion as an excuse.

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