T.R. Smedberg Middle School - Warning Signs of Underachievement

Warning Signs of Underachievement

Reprinted from Seattle Times (Nov. 2002)

Here are some red flags that your child is an underachiever, from http://www.underachievingchild.com and "Overcoming Underachieving" by Ruth Peters:

Scores well on achievement tests, but has low grades
Turns in work inconsistently and does not complete assignments on time
Makes excuses for poor work and failures
Lacks organization skills and does not use time effectively
Prefers to socialize or "hang out" rather than do schoolwork
Procrastinates or works slowly on assignments
"Gets by" rather than doing his/her best
Forgets to bring books and folders home from school or vice versa
Promises to do better, but doesn't follow through
Does good work when the teacher regularly checks homework, but slacks off with less strict teachers
Gets out of work by being charming or clever
Hides or lies about poor grades and homework
Fails to mention important assignments such as book reports or projects
Has unexcused absences
Blames others for his poor grades, as in, "The teacher doesn't like me."

If you find that this fits your child, please don't hesitate to contact your school. Teachers, counselors, and administrators are more than willing to help prevent your child from being left behind.