For example, don’t start an argument about a seating arrangement because you want to sit next to a friend. Something you could argue about is changing a seating arrangement if another student is bothering or cheating off of you. You can also talk to your teacher about how you’re performing in class, such as a missed assignment you’d like to turn in or a bad grade you want them to raise.

For example, if you want to turn in an assignment late, you may write down, “I had a lot of other homework,” in the left column. The middle column may read, “You should have planned better. ” Finally, the right column may read something like, “I should have planned better, but I had a game last night and wasn’t able to complete it. ”

For example, you may say, “Mr. Smith, would you have time to talk after class today in your office?” See if your teacher is available during a lunch period so you both have time to talk within school hours.

For example, you may say, “I know your policy on turning in late work, but I would like to turn this assignment if I can. ”

Agree with your teacher if they say something that they’re right about. For example, if your teacher says, “You can’t turn in an assignment after the due date,” you may say, “You’re right, the paper is late and I should have turned it in on time. ” Don’t interrupt your teacher while they’re talking.

For example, if you got blamed for littering in the classroom and the teacher gave you detention, you may say, “I understand you’re upset about the paper on the floor, but it wasn’t me and I shouldn’t have detention for something I didn’t do. ” If you start feeling frustrated, take a deep breath and wait for it to pass before talking again. If your teacher starts getting angry, drop the subject and leave.

For example, you may say, “I know a 3-page paper was due yesterday, but could I turn in a 5-page paper tomorrow for partial points?”

Don’t get angry with your teacher if they tell you no. Always stay polite so it doesn’t feel like you’re attacking them.

If your teacher got angry with you during your discussion, tell an administrator or the principal about their behavior as soon as you can.