High school can be hard enough for students, without the added pressure of feeling like an outsider in the classroom. Have you ever felt like the teacher gives special treatment to athletes or popular kids?
It often seems that way, but the truth is, often those kids are just the “squeaky wheel” kids. They get attention because they give it.
Often, students who garner lots of attention have built up more confidence in themselves through visible roles as athletes, cheerleaders, or class representatives, and as a result, they speak out when they have something to say.
How does this affect teachers? Teachers are people, too, and they enjoy feedback. They enjoy the feeling that their students are listening, and that they’re gaining something from the lessons and lectures. Often, it’s just that simple.
What can you do? Make an extra effort to stand out. You don’t have to be a geekoid, just show the teacher that you’re trying to learn.
Overcome the fear of speaking up in class. Do you have answer anxiety? Do you usually know answers, but you’re afraid to raise your hand or call out an answer? If so, try to have confidence in yourself. Remember, everyone else feels just the same. Try answering the question the next time. You’ll gain confidence and your teacher will notice you.
Put all your effort into an assignment to make it stand out. Too often students put off papers until it’s too late to give it their all. The result is an “adequate” result. You know you can do better! Next time, try getting an early start and putting all your effort into one assignment. Do some extra research, make the assignment visually outstanding, use extra care in your writing—do something to knock the socks off your teacher. Get noticed!
Become a team leader. If you have a group assignment, volunteer to be the leader or team spokesman.
Ask about extra credit. Tell the teacher that you’re concerned about your grades and ask if there’s something you can do.
There are many other ways to stand out and get noticed. You’ll be surprised how your confidence and your willingness to speak up in class can affect your all-around performance.
