Less than a month left, and I’m done trying with one of my classes. They are, by far, the worst group I’ve had in years. Most of my classes will at least try, even if they’re chatty, but this one just refuses to care.
I’ve tried everything: seating charts, room arrangements, different lesson styles and activities, small groups, rotations, it doesn’t matter. Half of the class doesn’t care, and the other half earns As and either sits quietly or participates.
I’ve tried gamifying lessons, students don’t participate and just argue. I’ve tried projects,students space out for days and then don’t turn in work. I’ve conferenced individually and with parents, no changes. I wear costumes, make jokes, tell stories, and we do hands-on activities, still no changes.
At this point, I’m giving worksheets and packets that will be graded the next day. Students who want a good grade will do them and pass; those who don’t, won’t. If they want to talk and not finish assignments, I don’t care anymore. Tomorrow, one group is getting a reading and a quiz. The other classes will play vocabulary bingo.
Edit:
I appreciate all the support from y’all. I know some lurkers come here being negative. I meant this post as a space for me to vent and relate to like minded peers not start an argument. Please ignore any individuals posting negative comments.