Today was a big day in my class – our first full lab report was due. Remember those? All those sections: introduction, materials and methods, data and results and conclusion.
Lab reports are not easy for 15 year olds, so I built in a lot of hand-holding and supports for my little young adults. I assigned it 2 weeks ago and had daily “check for understandings” for the due date. I gave them an instruction sheet, an outline, and an example lab report to look at. I gave them a lab report template where all they had to do was complete the sentences. I gave them time in class (2 class days) to work on it and I made myself available every day after school and via email to help them.
Today was the big day. I hold in my hand 10 complete lab reports…out of 85 students. FAIL.
I did gather a few NOT AMUSING excuses though. Real gems:
“I didn’t know it was due today!” FACE PALM
“Lab report? What Lab report?” DOUBLE FACE PALM
“I need help on it! can I come after school to get help?” YOU’RE WAITING UNTIL THE DAY IT’S DUE TO ASK FOR HELP!?!?!?
“Oh, I didn’t get it. I don’t understand it.” FOR REAL?!?!
“Oops.” FACE PALM
“Can I give it you you tomorrow?” YES
“Can I email it to you tonight?” YES
Teachers Have Lives Too! 