You can ask, “Is there a good time when we can meet to discuss my work in this class? I want to go over some comments that you have given me. " Offer some times when you are available to meet. You do not have to discuss specifics with them yet. If you are nervous about approaching your teacher, try to take a deep breath before you go over. Remember that meeting with students is part of the teacher’s job.
Use “I” statements instead of “you” statements. For example, say “I feel as though I can’t understand the questions you are asking me” instead of “You keep making me answer hard questions in class. ”[2] X Research source Sometimes teachers tease as a way of bonding with students, but don’t realize that some students consider it embarrassing or even critical. Try saying, “I feel really embarrassed when you mention my work/writing in front of the class. I don’t like all the attention on me. " Try to be calm and rational. You can say, “I keep getting C’s on my papers, which is frustrating because I work very hard on them. I usually think I’m doing well, but then I always get points taken off. ”
”How can I better prepare for your class?” “How can I improve my essays?” “What am I missing when I turn in my assignments?”
Is this criticism justified? Have you actually made the mistake that the teacher is coaching you about? If the answer is yes, then no matter how much you are annoyed by the teacher pointing out your mistakes, you should accept the criticism and fix these specific problem areas. Your teacher should never call you names or insult you. If your teacher is telling you that you are stupid, dumb, or annoying, you can complain to the administration.
Instead of arguing, ask what you can do to fix the problem. For example, if the teacher says you do not have enough sources on your bibliography, you may disagree. Instead of challenging them, say “I have ten sources. How many more do I need?” Avoid threatening your teacher. Even if you are not serious about the threat, schools will have to take it seriously, and you will be punished. [4] X Research source Avoid phrases like “You’ll regret this,” or, “I’ll show you. "
If you’re worried about this class affecting your college application, consider ways you can make up for the bad class. Take on extracurricular activities, volunteer, or work harder on other classes.
For example, just because you are not doing well in math class does not mean that you are stupid. In fact, you might be better with words and communication than numbers. That’s okay! People have different strengths. Criticism is not about making you feel bad or less than. It’s a way to help you grow, learn, and improve. Your essays won’t improve if you don’t get feedback on where they need work. Try not to look at the criticism as an attack, but instead as another learning tool.
Consider spending extra time with the teacher if they are willing to tutor you. Though it may be hard to spend more time with this teacher when you feel picked on, this can help you in a few ways. You will become more familiar with this particular teacher’s way of phrasing questions for tests and which types of questions will be asked. In addition, your teacher will see how dedicated you are and might offer ways to bring up a grade with extra credit.
Do not talk to friends during class. If you must, do so discreetly. Make sure your phone is turned off and put away. Otherwise, you risk getting unwanted attention in class when it rings! Pay attention to what the teacher is saying. Volunteer to answer questions. Take notes. Do not doodle or draw while your teacher is talking, except if it helps you understand the information more. Hand in your work on time. [7] X Research source
Take a deep breath. Meditate for a few minutes until you feel your anger or frustration leaving you. Try to separate your self-worth from the grades you receive. What your teacher is commenting on is a specific task. They do not look down on you as a person. Instead of considering how you failed, focus on how you can improve next time.
Criticism includes remarks like, “You need to proofread your paper,” or, “If you don’t show your work, you will not receive credit. ” These may come off as harsh, but they are not abusive. Abusive comments include threats, insults, or personal attacks. These include comments like, “If you don’t shut up, I’m going to fail you,” or, “You’re so stupid. I can’t expect you to understand how to do this correctly. ”
This is a last resort. If you meet with the principal and they decide that the teacher was right, the teacher may have a grudge against you. You can also have your parents call and make the appointment. Administration may be more willing to listen to them. Ask one of your parents to come with you to the meeting if possible.
You can try saying, “I do not think that I will be given a fair grade in this class because I am not given opportunities to improve. I want to know if it is possible for me to be moved to another teacher’s class. I’d even be willing to make it up over summer. ” Instead of complaining that you received bad grades, point out specific instances when the teacher gave you an unfair mark and explain why you think it was undeserved. If your teacher is abusive, then a complaint can be made to the principal and possibly the school board. You will need thorough documentation of the abuse (a detailed, written record, or even a recording if possible) and you will need your parent’s help. Don’t try to do this alone.
