Score with teach! no, teachers aren't out to get you. A few thoughtful tactics on your part could get them to see the star student in you - Life

Girls' Life, Oct-Nov, 2002 by Raquel Singer Klein

Teachers didn't get to be teachers by being oblivious. Like it or not, they know what's up. They know who puts in something extra, who watches the second hand circle the clock and who calls them "Godzilla" behind their backs. Not only do they know, but they care. And because they're human, that caring can come off as a reflection...on your report card. Even if you're a genius, your teacher's unlikely to dole out A's if she knows you as the eye-rolling slouch. It's not too late to straighten up and act glued to her every word. Before dismissing this as a pathetic move to becoming teacher's pet, read on.

BE THERE, OR BE SQUARE

Being a no-show or hardily tardy is no way to score points. Out-of-sight/out-of-mind doesn't apply here--chronic absenteeism only causes you to stand out as the kid with the poor attendance record. And rolling into class after the bell rings is disruptive. Unless you have a legit excuse (the bus broke down), being on time to class every day is a must. If you're ill, make sure Mom writes a note--and it's up to you to collect makeup work as soon as you're back to class.

FRONT AND CENTER

Sitting in the front row makes it trickier to pass notes with your BFF, but it can max your facts intake. Quite simply, it's easier to focus when you're close to the action. At the very least, you'll seem more interested even if you aren't--and that's what teachers like to see. It's just basic manners to listen when people talk, even if he is rambling endlessly about the Eastern Gray Tree Frog. Another great reason for sitting up front? Teachers get to know your face, which could lead to generosity when grading time comes around. If you're in a huge class, it's not surprising that teachers warm up more to students they remember from the front row than faceless students in the back. And all teachers know the "I didn't do my homework so I'm hiding in the last row" trick.

SPEAK UP

Go ahead--raise your hand. Asking questions and getting involved not only keeps you from being bored, but it impresses teachers. Lots of teachers pad grades for class participation, so don't waste a sec thinking you'll look stupid asking a question. Chances are, a couple kids will think, "Phew, so glad she asked that 'cause it made no sense to me."

CHARM SCHOOL

Teachers favor well-mannered students. Little words like, "please," "thank you," and "I'm sorry," pack valuable punch. More school-specific manners include not interrupting, asking permission for bathroom breaks and, puh-lease, resist the urge to nod off.

YA GOTTA SWEAT

Sorry, there are no shortcuts. You've got to do your homework, complete class assignments and study for tests. It's tough to get teachers on your side if you're slacking. If you throw your midterm essay together the night before the due date, you're not fooling anyone but yourself. Teachers are trained to tell the diff between shabby, half-baked work from real At effort. Stumped? Ask for help. Teachers like that, too.

IT'S ALL ABOUT TRUST

You might not know it, but teachers are not in it for the money. You're misinformed if you think teaching earns megabucks! Most teachers actually enjoy spreading knowledge. Trust your teacher to help you, guide you, challenge you...and sometimes cut you a break.