Wednesday, December 3, 2008

"Can I still get a good grade in your class?"

No, no you can't.

To get a good grade in my class, you would need to attend class regularly and show up on time.

To get a good grade in my class, you would need to turn in all the assignments, not two of the ten that have been due.

To get a good grade in my class, you would need to direct your comments during discussion to the assigned readings and the topics at hand.

To get a good grade in my class, you would need to keep the appointments you make with me instead of just trying to grab minutes of my time after class when I have clearly told you that I am leaving for the day. Here's a hint: don't make a professor have to say to you point blank: "pick up your things now and walk out the door because I am going to lock the door and walk away."

To get a good grade in my class, you would need to have a final project. You would need to stop asking me abstract questions about how different professors approach the writing of papers and actually start writing something.

To get a good grade in my class, you should absolutely not -- never ever -- stand in a hallway and accuse me of not returning graded work to the class promptly when you have only turned in TWO assignments (both late) and you have no fucking idea what you are talking about. Since you took your own sweet time turning your work in, I will take my own sweet time in grading -- which means I will always grade the work your classmates have turned in on time first.

So, no, no you are not going to get a good grade in my class. You are not going to pass my class, in all likelihood, let alone get the C you need for it to count toward your major. Here's a thought, maybe we could just call it a day. You focus on not failing your other classes and I'll focus my energy on the students who are actually engaged with this class.

3 comments:

Daye said...

I hear ya sister!!! Tell It!! Go on!! Smack 'em down!!

mmmm hmmm dat's right!

Zoe the Wonder Dog said...

Yeah, I know we are all there at this time of the year...

Usually, my students only annoy me and I can often turn that into a sort of amusement (good stories for the dinner table, etc)... but this one pushed my buttons and I landed in my angry place.

I feel better now.

Andre said...

Geez prof., you're so mean!