Final answer:
Helen feels that there is no point in excelling in her favorite teacher's class as individual achievements and efforts are no longer recognized due to a shift to a collective grading system.
Step-by-step explanation:
Helen finds that there is no merit in being good in her favorite teacher's class because the grading system has been altered to a collective model where individual effort is not recognized. The move from a merit-based system that rewards personal effort, class participation, and innate ability, to a system where everyone receives a 'C' grade, essentially means that individual achievements are not valued. In such a scenario, a student who works hard and excels does not receive a higher grade to reflect their efforts and abilities, leading to demotivation and a sense of unfairness.