Final answer:
The main purpose for grading in Mrs. O'Connell's classroom is sorting and ranking students.
Step-by-step explanation:
The main purpose for grading in Mrs. O'Connell's classroom is d. Sorting and ranking students.
The teacher's approach to grading, known as the 'carrot and the stick' approach, has the goal of creating a competitive atmosphere where students are motivated to challenge their peers and strive for good grades. By sorting and ranking students based on their performance, the teacher aims to identify the most capable students and provide them with opportunities for accelerated programs and successful college attendance.
Grading also plays a role in encouraging competition and rivalry among students, which can further motivate them to improve their performance. However, the primary purpose of grading in this classroom is to sort and rank students based on their academic merit or potential.