What? You Mean I Have to Work at School?!?!

Let me just express my irritation for students some days. As a general rule, they think everyday should be a free day. On Monday's they do not want to work because it's Monday and the first day of the week. On Friday's they do not want to work because it's Friday and almost the weekend. So basically we should just have a 3 day week. Also, after an assignment is given, it's absurd of me to expect them to refer back to the chapter first before asking me. Now let's not get it twisted...I have no problem answering student questions, but is it too much to ask for them to attempt to find the answer on their own before asking me? I tell them that they will learn more if they look it up themselves, but sometimes that is asking too much. They whine and say "just tell me the answer". They also hate when I answer their question with a question trying to get them to think and use critical thinking skills. I have also learned that when giving directions, demonstrating a skill, or explaining an assignment I begin speaking a foreign language that can not be understood by high school students. I didn't even know I had that ability...maybe I should add that to my resume. It never fails I will say... "now listen closely so you will understand what to do when you get to this" and ALWAYS someone will ask me about whatever I had just emphasized. Someone should also reprimand me for expecting them to read. Everyday I have all of their instructions, alterations to the book instructions, page numbers, assignments, instructions for submitting their assignment, and any other announcements on a daily assignments page that is accessible to all of them. This system has been in place since the beginning of the semester, however, I always get the same questions that are clearly stated in black and white on the assignments page.

Disclaimer: First and foremost, I absolutely love my teaching job! However, just as everyone does in their job, we have things that frustrate us. So if you are are shocked and appalled that I would make such comments then I am going to assume you are not a teacher. If you are a teacher...then you are probably shaking your head in agreement!