Case
Late Homework

What do you do with a student who consistently turns in their homework late, but their homework is the best done and most accurate in the whole class. The student is very bright but seems to be lacking motivation. I've tried to help them create a routine but it has not worked.

Solution #1
For a student who consistently turns in late homework but produces high-quality work, it’s important to identify the root cause of the delay. Start by having a one-on-one conversation with the student to understand any external factors or challenges they may be facing. While they may be bright, their late submissions might indicate underlying issues such as perfectionism, time management struggles, or a lack of interest in the current structure. A potential approach is to allow some flexibility in deadlines for this particular student while simultaneously setting small, manageable goals to gradually improve their timeliness. Providing positive reinforcement for on-time submissions could also help build motivation. Additionally, explore alternative ways to engage the student, such as project-based assignments or opportunities for them to share their work in class, which might spark their interest and create accountability. Balancing flexibility with high expectations shows that their abilities are recognized while also emphasizing the importance of meeting deadlines
Solution #2
It sounds like you've got a really bright student who just needs a little extra push with their motivation. Since their work is top-notch, it's clear they’re capable it’s just a matter of getting them to turn it in on time. One thing you could try is giving them some positive feedback about the quality of their work while also gently reminding them how important it is to meet deadlines. Maybe set up a reward system where they get a small recognition or incentive if they submit their work on time, even if it’s just a small win to get them started. You could also try breaking down their homework into smaller tasks with mini deadlines throughout the week. This might make it feel less overwhelming and help them stay on track. Another idea is to keep checking in with them, maybe in a one-on-one conversation. See if something is going on that’s affecting their motivation, whether it's outside distractions or just not feeling connected to the assignments. If you can tie the work to something they care about or enjoy, it might spark more interest. Ultimately, it’s about helping them see the value in submitting on time while keeping them motivated to keep up that great quality.