It has occured to me...

and I may be wrong...that if a student sees a teacher as fun, kind, or laid-back, he or she may take the class less seriously. Should I be offended by this? I don't know. It is not in my nature to be a hard-nose or to be a stickler for certain behaviors. I'm fine with gum and talking (most of the time). I like to laugh with my class. I prefer discussion over busywork. So should that be an excuse for my students to take their work as a joke? I am more than serious about them doing quality work. I set high standards and have fun while we accomplish those as a class. Ah, well, it is hump day and Friday is approaching, though rather slowly this week. There is a lot to do in the mean time.