well, just know that there is not dumb question. One day before your class, read the chapter. Or even if you understand what the teacher is saying, ask a question. Also, just by being in the class every day, you get points for participating.

I understand what you’re saying…one way of making grades better is to participate in class discussions. I’m shy though, so I don’t like talking in front of a group of people. Plus, I never really have anything to ask. If the professor asks a question and you know the answer, raise your hand. That’s participation too. The professor will be more likely to call on you if you raise your hand to answer your question if you’re not a person who talks a lot in class. If I do have a question, I’m not usually comfortable asking in front of everybody, so I will ask the professor after class is over or go to his/her office hours if I need extra help. Going to office hours especially shows the professor you really care about the class, and if you’re going to office hours, that shows extra participation on your part, and (some) professors are more likely to bump up your grade if you’re borderline between receiving two grades because you took the initiative to show up. Hope this helps.

Another way to ask questions is to try to apply the book learning to your real life. Asking questions that require deeper answers are usually good too! Shows you’re interested in the subject. Let’s say you’re taking a history class and the book talks about the politics of the day. You could ask questions about whether their views were the same as the rest of the people in that area or different. (Just an example off top of my head)

Just pretend you’re only talking to the instructor, they really want to hear your comment. That’s why they called on you. Don’t worry about what the other kids might think. They’ll think you’re smart once you answer.

well…you should just make up questions…raise your hand ….and ask……ask the teacher questions whether you understand or not…you know..just a little trick