A teacher's expectations can strongly influence a class. For example, I once taught a long-term substitute position for English in a high school. I had an advanced class, a remedial class, and three "regular classes." I taught them all the same material and assigned the same exercises and essays. The morale of the remedial class went sky high, and so did their grades, once they found out I was asking the same of them as the advanced students. My belief in their abilities was magical.
Yet, on the other hand, the advanced class was bored with everything I tried to do, no matter how big or small or creative or challenging. They had no will to learn something new: That's another discussion - how to motivate advanced students with stimulating and challenging learning experiences. . . .
Thanks, again, Haig. Your posts make me think.
Your comments are thoughtful and welcomed!