When to Ask and How to Get It

Not every teacher gives extra credit, and even if they do, they may not give it to every student. Doesn’t sound quite fair, does it? Well, the truth is that teachers want to help students who help themselves. If you’re not showing up for class, participating in discussions or turning in your homework, why SHOULD a teacher give you a leg up on your grades?

If you want extra credit and you’re not looking like a model student, try repairing your classroom image before asking for it. Make sure to engage yourself in the content; raise your hand and join in discussions; ask a question if you don’t understand something; study a little bit every night, and of course, turn in your homework. If your teacher sees you really care about the class and what you’re learning, he or she will be much more likely to consider giving you an extra credit assignment.

When and How to Ask

Talk to your teacher when he or she isn’t busy or facing a long line of other students who also need to talk. Try to get to class a few minutes early, or visit at the end or the beginning of the day. Explain to the teacher about the extra work you’ve been doing, and then ask if there is any extra work you could be doing. Tell him or her that, if at all possible, you want your grade to reflect your efforts in the class as well as your knowledge.

It might help if you come armed with a suggestion or two about what your assignment should be. For instance, if you’re studying the Civil War, maybe you could write a paper on a particular battle, or do a research project about what daily life was like for the soldiers. Maybe even type out your proposal beforehand.

When NOT to Ask

If you haven’t been making the efforts mentioned above … you should be! No teacher is going to be charitable to a student that appears to be lazy and self-centered. Harsh, but true. Also, make sure your teacher is in a good mood, and has time to talk and really consider your proposal.

If your teacher says no, don’t lose heart. Maybe you can find a study group or tutor to help you along. Or ask your teacher for recommendations on other ways to boost your grade, such as a different book or additional exercises. If your teacher sees how much you care, maybe he or she will reconsider an extra credit assignment in the future.