Tests are ok and if everyone fails then, give them back the test with that grade on it and tell them that grade will stick. It will get them to say ok she is a sub but, it can still effect my grade. I would try to make it fun if you can but, then again the students know you are a sub and might not listen to you.

What grade level? As a fellow educator, I would give the intial answer yes- give a quiz. But then when they all fail, what will you do. You need to raise the bar, but not too high that no one can reach it. Maybe you should try to present the chapters piece by piece in class in an interesting way. Then slowly wein them into reading the chapters on their own.

Also, think about some fun projects that they could do that helps present the chapter info.

I’m a high school junior, and although I don’t like it, I have to admit that when a teacher raises the bar, i feel more motivated to meet his or her expectations. I then always remember in the back of my mind to make that class a top priority, because I know how hard a grader the teacher is. I remember last year, when I had one class where the teacher was very lenient with her students. I really didn’t take her seriously, so I would always do poorly on her work because her class didn’t matter to me. I would advise you to make your students take your class seriously; and I think a pop quiz would do just that.

As a fellow teacher, I understand situations like this can be frustrating.

Well, tests can never hurt, and yes, it’s a way to make your students take your class serious.

However, you should also ask yourself are you making the class interesting enough? Why the students didn’t read the chapter, are they lazy or they simply don’t find the stuff interesting enough?

But back to your question, yes, I think giving them a test is a good idea.

Good luck!!

As a teacher myself, I’d first want to ask you, “Why aren’t the students listening?” I don’t see how failing a pop quiz will get them to respect you. Perhaps you could take a risk and ask them. After all, they’re taking the time to take your class; how can they help to make the class more productive?

Yes! You probably already know that if they start with this attitude, it certainly isn’t going to improve.