Doing Poorly on Purpose

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Doing Poorly on Purpose

Strategies to Reverse Underachievement and Respect Student Dignity

Educational administration and organization Teaching of students with different educational needs Teaching of gifted or talented students Teaching skills and techniques

Author: James R. Delisle

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Language: English

Published by: ASCD

Published on: 23rd January 2017

Format: LCP-protected ePub

Size: 166 pages

ISBN: 9781416625384


With Doing Poorly on Purpose, veteran educator James R. Delisle dispels the negative associations and stereotypes connected to underachievement. By focusing on smart kids who get poor grades—not because they’re unable to do better in school but because they don’t want to—Delisle presents a snapshot of underachievement that may look far different from what you envision it to be.

There is no such thing as a “classic underachiever.” Students (and their reasons for underachieving) are influenced by a wide range of factors, including self-image, self-concept, social-emotional relationships, and the amount of dignity teachers afford their students.

Helping “smart” students achieve when they don’t want to is not an easy task, but you can reengage and inspire students using Delisle’s insights and practical advice on these topics:

  • Autonomy
  • Access
  • Advocacy
  • Alternatives
  • Aspirations
  • Approachable Educators

Smart, underachieving students need the reassurance that they are capable, valuable, and worth listening to despite their low academic performance. If these students—who are otherwise academically capable—don’t feel they are getting respect from those in charge of their learning, then the desire to conform and achieve is minimized.

In a word, they want dignity. Don’t we all?

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