Question

Afraid of being overly tough on students, some teachers tend to ignore discipline problems. For example,
in a classroom where cheating runs rampant during testing, the teacher has doubtless failed to indicate the
consequences. If cheaters are dealt with solely after class on a personal basis, the offense may never go on
their permanent record, they may suffer no grade consequences, and they probably will not stop cheating.
The teacher also will have difficulty gaining the respect of students and peers. A strong example must be
set for those who would cheat. Simply threatening to take away a test and give a zero is not enough. A
teacher must not only patrol the classroom, but must also have an excellent relationship with the students.
A teacher who is well liked and respected will encounter less cheating. If students like a teacher –
regardless of the grades they receive - they will want to perform to please the teacher, and this encourages
honesty. Many teachers today also seem almost afraid of failing students. When many students fail a
class, it tells an administrator that the teacher does not teach well. However, a teacher who does know
how to teach but chooses to pass students who do less than passing work helps no one. Before giving an
essay a C or a D, the teacher should consider the letter grade the real world would give the essay. Would
this essay get the applicant a job or gain the person the respect of the employer? If the answer is no, then
the essay should not pass as being average. Accepting only the best work a student is capable of
encourages a healthy work ethic.
1. What are two things that many teachers today seem afraid of, in the writer's opinion?
2. What are some of the factors that create a successful learning situation?
3. How can a teacher "encourage a healthy work ethic"?
4. List the results of not being tough with cheaters.

Answer 1

Answer:

1. Many teachers today also seem almost afraid of failing students.