That droning robot of a Maths teacher only smiles when he starts the class with a pop quiz. Your English teacher has yet to say one positive thing about your writing, which you were always told is more than good. Its weeks into the school year and your third lesson history teacher has yet to learn anyone's name. The movies and TV are filled with examples of teachers who don't do their job very well. Now this year you meet one of the reasons why.

Most of us have been lucky enough to learn first hand that there are some incredible teachers in this world, but just like with any other profession, there are a few who are, uh, less than incredible. Whether you've lucked out this term or not, establishing at least a respectful relationship with your teachers is important. Teachers have the power to appoint and recommend, to advise and support, to grade generously or not. You have the power to put yourself in a positive light, regardless of how boring or unfair or bad tempered you believe your teacher to be.

Put yourself in your teacher's shoes. Who would you feel more kindly towards, the kids who chat and pass notes and roll their eyes, or the ones who make eye contact, raise their hands and ask questions? The simple truth is that teachers have the educational background to equip you with knowledge. But they are not psychiatrists or social workers. The most dedicated cannot take a pack of students ready to party and force information into their brains.

If you're stuck with a dud of an educator this year, you might try to:

1. schedule a private meeting/chat to ask questions, enquire about a career in the subject (it's obviously your teacher's favourite!) or talk about how you're doing in class. Lots of times the person you'll be dealing with one-on-one will be more relaxed than the teacher standing in front of the room.
   
2. diffuse a shouting match by letting your teacher have his say first before responding, even if you think you're being treated unjustly. Maybe putting your reply in writing, saying something like "I'd like to tell you my version of what happened. The facts have been somewhat distorted, Or "It embarrasses me in class when..." . Or I can't learn in class when you..." Keep it short, simple, calm and factual.
   
3. be aware that teachers are heavily influenced by appearance. Students who dress conservatively are usually given higher marks.
   
4. talk to students who get along with this teacher better. They might suggest a plan of action to help.
   
5. pick your battles carefully. Avoid squabbling over your grades. Doing this too often will lead to friction.
   
6. not try too hard. No extravagant gifts. No false compliments. Teachers are perceptive enough to recognise insincerity.
   
7. as a last resort, tell your parents and have them meet with your teacher. Try to solve the problem yourself first, though. It can be very threatening to a teacher to be called on the carpet.
   

The truth is most teachers are helpful, compassionate, hard working and under appreciated. If they aren't all inspiring and charismatic, well, neither are 90% of the people you deal with each day. Your successful efforts at learning to cope with a difficult teacher will hold you in good stead for the rest of life's difficult situations. Good luck!