In recent days, a fake 2B pencil has sparked widespread concern among students and parents, as it reportedly caused test scores to drop. The incident quickly spread on Weibo, prompting many candidates to worry about the quality of their exam supplies. Some students who study at home are now hesitant to purchase pencils, fearing they might end up with counterfeit products.
According to reports from Weibo, the China Pencil Association conducted tests on both genuine and fake 2B pencils. When the same answer sheet was used, the machine recognized the real 2B pencil's score as 100 points, while the fake one only scored 87 points. This raised questions: what is the actual difference between using different pencils during exams?
The key lies in the graphite concentration. Card readers are designed to recognize the specific lead density of a 2B pencil. According to industry standards, pencils are categorized into 18 grades based on graphite concentration, ranging from 6B (softest) to 9H (hardest). Common Chinese pencils typically range from 13 grades, from darkest to lightest. A representative from Zhonghua Pencil explained that current production follows the national standard GB/T 26698-2011, which requires pencils to meet high-quality criteria, especially for 2B pencils used in standardized tests.
Professional card readers can only accurately read the lead concentration of a genuine 2B pencil. If the lead is too thick or too light, the machine may fail to recognize the answers, leading to lower scores. This is why it’s crucial for students to use properly certified pencils.
Pencils are mainly made of graphite, along with wood, paint, and other materials. According to the manufacturer, Chinese pencils have strict standards regarding graphite content and hardness. Counterfeit 2B pencils often lack sufficient graphite or are improperly manufactured, making them unsuitable for automated scoring systems.
To avoid such issues, students are advised to purchase 2B pencils from reliable sources like department stores or supermarkets. In addition, expired pencils may also cause problems. Some stationery store owners confirmed that pencils have a shelf life, typically two years from the date of manufacture, and should be stored in dry, well-ventilated areas.
During a visit to local stationery shops, reporters found a wide variety of 2B pencils available, including wooden, automatic, and refillable sets. Prices ranged from 5 to 8 yuan. One shop owner mentioned that while most products are genuine, some batches might have minor quality issues.
Experts recommend several ways to identify genuine 2B pencils:
1. Check the logo: Genuine pencils have consistent "2B" markings on all three sides. Fake ones often have uneven or distorted labels.
2. Examine the wood: Real pencils are made from eucalyptus wood, which is moderately soft and has a dark red color. Fakes may have painted red tops but lighter wood inside, making them brittle and prone to cracking.
3. Look at the printing: Authentic pencils have clear, fine print. Counterfeits tend to have blurry or uneven printing, with rough surfaces and blackened paint.
Some brands also use digital anti-counterfeit technology, allowing users to verify authenticity by scratching off a label and checking a code online.
As exam season approaches, it's essential for students to ensure they're using the right tools. Choosing the correct 2B pencil not only helps prevent errors but also ensures that their hard work is accurately reflected in their scores.
Outdoor Folding Chair
Camping Lounge Chairs ,Outdoor Folding Aluminum Chair,Foldable Lawn Chairs,Portable Camping Chair
NINGBO JENNY IMPORT & EXPORT CO.,LTD , https://www.jenny-china.com