Participation grades

Hi CC.

So, with finals wrapping up at my uni I’m starting to calculate final grades (as every desperate college student does) and I notice/remember one of my courses has its 10% participation grade... much to my sadness.

Now, I’m very very quiet and prefer to learn by watching and listening. Other students are much more vocal and enjoy putting their two cents into the conversation/debate.

My participation grades are typically mid B grades because I never miss class and I’m always attentive but I just cannot bring myself to debate in front of the entire class.

My question to you all, do you think participation grades are {nearly} punishment for being an introvert/shy person? Why/why not? 🤔