Lowest common or 90th percentile

Is it common for the first test to represent the "lowest common denominator" of skill or a "90th percentile" representation of skill?

Thanks!

I guess this could be for any level test. Any opinions? I have seen a variety of competencies (very wide variety) of practioners of the same level. I understand that some will be better than others and that practicing AIKIDO is not about ego. So, neither is this question. I am just interested in what common practice is. Are you just good enough or are you good to go?

To be honest, I haven't the faintest idea what you mean! I don't intend to waste server space by replying with no real message, but perhaps if you asked your question in a more simple way people might be able to answer...

A first grading (at least in our organisation) is usually just an acknowledgement that you understand basic dojo etiquette and can perform easy ukemi- this grade is "kihon" (again, at least in our organisation), and the next is 6th Kyu, (my current grade) where you have a basic understanding of techniques like kotegaishi, kokyu-nage, suwari waza kokyo ho and ikkyo, although you train more advanced techniques when they're being taught.

There are 2 6th kyu students in our class at the moment- we both graded on the same night at the start of the year, and the other guy is better than me at most techniques (he's a yudansha in jiu-jitsu, though I don't think he still trains in it). There are 5th kyus who were better than me when they were 6th kyu, etc. Grade, IMO, is only truly reflective of skill in the higher levels. As the wise men say, it's all about the person, not the grade. I don't believe it's possible to judge skill purely by grade- although after 1st kyu, grades are awarded on basis of skill...

I really don't know if that made any more sense than the question, or whether it was helpful. Oh well.

First grades are more that you know things are done & to get you used to the grading jitters.
"Skill" and "first grading" are irrelevant together.
"Left foot" and "right foot" and "telling them apart when sensei's staring you down" are far more relevant. ;-)

My sensei says it depends on whos testing. Some people do not do their best on a test, due to nerves and it is a "low" estimate of their skills, whereas other students do well under pressure, adreanlyne, etc. and they do their best.

Jeanne

Jeanne Shepard wrote: My sensei says it depends on whos testing. Some people do not do their best on a test, due to nerves and it is a "low" estimate of their skills, whereas other students do well under pressure, adreanlyne, etc. and they do their best. Jeanne

That is a great insight. Actually all of the responses hoave been helpful. Thanks!