How to Survive a Teacher that can't Teach
This was the planned content for Day 4 of the personal 30 day content creation challenge. On that day I met my beloved bestie, we just started her beloved business. (Will add the link in the comment section soon!) Sletover at her place sooo did not manage to clock in the final version in lemon8 on time 😭 As punishment i will double the number of entires for every day missed so currently it stands at 8 (including today omg omg)
We went and bombarded Chagee!! As I was contemplating working part time there before going overseas again. 🇲🇾🇩🇪🇨🇭Chagee pay rate is 13/h with not increments on weekends or public holiday. Minimum 3 month commitment… (of which i cannot afford with the copious amounts of traveling)
✦ . ⁺ . ✦ . ⁺ . ✦
So here is the collated list of tips and tricks to lengthen our survival with a Teacher that can't Teach…
Disclaimer: We are both PCMe students in 2 different JCs so our responses are more skewed to the stem side. 🙇♀️🙇♂️ I’ll be answering as E and she as A.
→ Do Other Work.
A: Math/phys calculation questions and do not listen to them. Try to hide your calculator when it is not a lesson that needs it. (aka gp or econs) Either that or notetaking something else as making notes process helps me digest the content better.
E: Mcq for chem or physics. I tend to get distracted easily so slapping ABCD is still doable. If my brain refuses to comprehend mcqs, I will just note down what is happening in my life on a piece of fullscape to seem mugging from the cher pov and somewhat distresses me. (If literally cmi will do so funny 1 line drawing with my table partner Qiu)
→ Eat Snacks & Drink Water.
A: Use this moment to clear snacks given in school such as TicTac, otherwise once you bring home it gets forgotten.
E: Please stay hydrated queens and kings. Don't waste your precious time. (This tip also relates to the next one.)
→ Go to the Toilet.
A: No comments. 😯
E: After gulping down copious amounts of water it makes sense right? To be fair I tend to ask questions and fortunately sit at the front so teachers are mostly ok with me heading to the loo. I take my time with number 1 or number 2 and wash my hands well before having a slow stroll back to class. (sometimes i bring along my phone to surf the net, whoopsies)
→ Play Sudoku.
A: Via New York Times, a great way to scratch your brain.
E: Honestly never thought of this, had to research the benefits of sudoku. “improved concentration, enhanced memory, stronger logical reasoning and a sense of accomplishment. (omg just tried the hard one and my head hurts)
Navigating a classroom where the teacher struggles to deliver effective lessons can be frustrating, but sharing some personal experiences has helped me and many peers manage better. Beyond the listed tips like doing other work or sneaking in some snacks, I found that creating a supportive study group makes a huge difference. When lessons lack clarity, discussing confusing topics with classmates after school or during breaks can fill knowledge gaps and reduce anxiety. One surprisingly helpful approach I tried was setting mini-goals during class—like writing down just three key points or trying to anticipate test questions. This focus trick keeps your brain engaged even when the teacher’s delivery isn’t inspiring. Also, using technology discreetly, such as educational apps or online summaries related to your subject, can supplement what you miss in class. Another helpful tip is to communicate respectfully with the teacher about your difficulties, if possible. Sometimes, they might be unaware of students’ struggles. Framing your concerns politely can occasionally lead to clearer explanations or additional resources. On a lighter note, balancing these strategies with self-care is key. Drinking water and taking short breaks to move around help combat fatigue and maintain focus for longer periods. Personally, I enjoy playing logic puzzles like Sudoku during downtimes; it refreshes my mind and sharpens logical thinking, helping me return to schoolwork energized. Remember, while you might not control the teacher’s abilities, you can control your learning journey by being proactive, resourceful, and patient with yourself. Combining these tactics can transform a challenging classroom experience into an opportunity for self-growth and resilience.
