Hi Steve: Boy, balance really is a key element, isn't it? It is unrealistic for instructors to believe that all of their students are striving to give that 110% all of the time (although there are instances in certain disciplines where that is probably close to being accurate). In consideration of the average student population while planning an evaluation system, it is important to assure higher performing students don't feel their work is not being recognized appropriately. A way to think about this goes back to the point about what is being measured. Again, although this varies among disciplines and skill sets, when assessment aligns to learning objectives, an instructor is more likely to strike that balance in grading that will fair to all and improves the overall achievement of learning. Regards, Barry