What’s Sabotaging Your Teen’s Math & Science Grades?

When it’s time to study, your teen usually...

• Says “what’s the point?” and avoids it completely

• Starts the night before a test, rushing through notes.

• Tries to study but stays stuck on the same topics.

Answer explanation

• A. Says “what’s the point?” and avoids it completely.
  ➤ Explanation: This signals a loss of motivation, common in a Derailed Dreamer.

• B. Starts the night before a test, rushing through notes.
  ➤ Explanation: This is a classic Last-Minute Crammer behavior. They rely on panic instead of a solid plan.

• C. Tries to study but stays stuck on the same topics.
  ➤ Explanation: Silent Strugglers put in effort but need support to study effectively.

What describes your teen’s reaction to bad marks?

• They shrug it off, say school isn’t for them.

• They panic, pull an all-nighter next time.

• They get frustrated but don’t talk about it.

Answer explanation

• A. They shrug it off, say school isn’t for them.
  ➤ Explanation: This avoidance shows emotional withdrawal — a Derailed Dreamer trait.

• B. They panic, pull an all-nighter next time.
  ➤ Explanation: This reactive response is typical of a Last-Minute Crammer trying to catch up too late.

• C. They get frustrated but don’t talk about it.
  ➤ Explanation: Silent Strugglers suffer quietly and often feel stuck despite trying.

Your teen’s approach to asking for help is:

• They don’t believe help will make a difference.

• They ask for help only right before an exam.

• They avoid asking, even when they’re stuck.

How does your teen prepare for tests?

• They don’t—what’s the point?

• Puts effort in too late, needs time management.

• Smart, but doesn’t participate or ask for help.

Answer explanation

• A. They don’t—what’s the point?
  ➤ Explanation: Derailed Dreamers lack preparation entirely, showing deep disengagement.

• B. They binge study the night before.
  ➤ Explanation: This is the Crammer’s go-to — a stressful and ineffective method.

• C. They revise quietly but still struggle to improve.
  ➤ Explanation: Silent Strugglers often revise, but they lack feedback and smart techniques.

What do teachers say about your teen?

• Lacks motivation or interest in learning.

• Puts effort in too late, needs time management.

• Smart, but doesn’t participate or ask for help.

Answer explanation

• A. “Lacks motivation or interest in learning.”
  ➤ Explanation: Teachers notice when a teen has mentally checked out — Derailed Dreamer alert.

• B. “Puts effort in too late, needs time management.”
  ➤ Explanation: This teacher feedback describes a Last-Minute Crammer.

• C. “Smart, but doesn’t participate or ask for help.”
  ➤ Explanation: Silent Strugglers often fly under the radar and need more guided engagement.

What does your teen say about math or science?

• “I’ll never get this.”

• “I’ll cram it when I need to.”

• “I study but still fail—what am I doing wrong?”

Answer explanation

• A. “I’ll never get this.”
  ➤ Explanation: This belief shows a Derailed Dreamer has lost confidence.

• B. “I’ll cram it when I need to.”
  ➤ Explanation: Crammers treat subjects like temporary emergencies, not long-term skills.

• C. “I study but still fail—what am I doing wrong?”
  ➤ Explanation: Silent Strugglers are trying, but they lack strategy or the right support.

Which statement sounds most like your teen overall?

• They’ve given up and lost interest in school.

• They procrastinate and rush last minute.

• They quietly try but aren’t seeing results.