The test alone is stressful enough, not to mention if there are other factors involved, such as illness, personal problems, or lack of preparation. If you fail a test for any reason, consider asking your teacher to allow you to take remedials. Taking remedial means that you accept responsibility for your education, and many teachers appreciate that sincere wish so you can try again and do better on tests. Getting allowed to take remedial takes a few tactics, so be sure to prepare everything before speaking to the teacher, and approach the teacher with respect and honesty.
Step
Part 1 of 3: Evaluating Why You Failed the Test
Step 1. Determine what caused you to fail the test
Aren't you studying? Did you fight with your parents?
- Understanding these reasons can help you be better prepared for remedial.
- Think about how much you are willing to share this information with the teacher. The teacher may ask why you want to take remedial, and you have to be honest. If it's a personal issue, you can make general metaphors: "family problems," or "personal tough issues." The teacher won't force you to tell it.
Step 2. Review the previous test several times
If you have had previous tests, review your work and the teacher's comments, if any. Is the error clear? Write down any questions you may have.
Step 3. Ask yourself are you ready to take remedial?
If this is due to a simple problem of not learning, then the problem can be solved more easily. Some circumstances may need more attention. Before seeing the teacher, you must have a preparation plan in order to be able to follow the remedial well.
- If it's due to a personal problem, be open about the problem that's bothering you. Failing one test is a sign that the problem could affect other academic grades, and that will make you feel bad. Talking to a friend or mentor might help.
- If you are having trouble with a subject, now is the time to find a private tutor who can help you understand the subject better.
Step 4. Prepare before you meet the teacher
Your teacher will probably provide a remedial within the next day or two, so be prepared. If you need more time, but want to see a teacher right away, be prepared to say when you're ready to take remedial.
Part 2 of 3: Talking About It With The Teacher
Step 1. Meet the teacher at the right time
You know your teacher best, so make an appropriate time to see him or her. After class or after school is usually a good time.
- You may only need a few minutes, or it will be a lengthy conversation. It's a good idea to see the teacher after the lesson. Teachers may have free time; otherwise the teacher will suggest a better time.
- Don't meet the teacher before class starts. This is a busy time for the teacher and he will be easily distracted.
Step 2. Take the previous test
Taking the test beforehand can help the teacher assess what needs improvement if he or she allows you to take remedials. The teacher may forget your previous grades, especially if you are in a large class.
Also bring along any questions you've written down earlier while showing the test results. Come fully prepared
Step 3. Ask politely if you can follow the remedial
Don't suddenly mention the reason why you failed the test; this will make the teacher think if you are just making up excuses.
Step 4. Admit that you made a mistake by failing the test
Tell the teacher that the test results are your fault and you are trying to take responsibility by asking to be allowed to take remedial.
It also clearly shows that you are not blaming the teacher for your poor grades
Step 5. Tell the teacher why you failed the test if asked
It is very likely that the teacher will ask why you need to take remedial. If that happens, tell the truth. That way, the teacher can help you figure out how to do better on tests.
Step 6. Determine the standards to be achieved if necessary
The teacher may ask you to study all night if you haven't reached the standard.
- If you are having trouble with a subject, ask the teacher for help. The teacher will not be able to re-teach everything at once, but may be able to point in the right direction.
- If you are considering calling in a private tutor, ask your teacher if they can recommend someone.
Step 7. Thank him for the time given, whether he answered "yes" or "no"
The teacher may have his reasons, and you need to respect his decision. At the very least, you can learn a little about his expectations and how to better prepare for the next test.
Part 3 of 3: Avoiding Remedials Over and Over
Step 1. Create a study plan
Memorizing material overnight is never a good idea; instead, set up a routine that includes doing homework on time and reviewing class material. This time you need to be calm, focused, and undisturbed.
If you don't know where to start, ask a teacher for help
Step 2. Get the academic support you need
Some subjects and topics can be very difficult. Find out if your school has a tutoring program and sign up for a few sessions. Alternatively, you can ask other teachers, tutors, or students to recommend a private tutor to help you better understand a particular subject.
Step 3. Get the emotional support you need
Unfortunately, life circumstances can often affect our ability to do well in school. If you are going through a difficult time, talk to family, friends, or a mentor. High schools and universities usually offer free tutoring to their students.
Tips
- Don't whine or argue with the teacher. This will make him forbid you to follow the remedial.
- The teacher may allow you to take remedial if you continue to do well in the subject.
Warning
- Just because the teacher provides an opportunity to take remedial does not mean the problem has been solved. Make sure you do well on the second test so the teacher won't regret his decision.
- Don't lie to the teacher. He will realize made-up excuses. Honesty is the best rule.
- Teachers may object to providing more than one or two remedials.
