Analysis of Calvin
Calvin's motivational pattern is one of performance-avoidance. He seeks to avoid doing his school work. He is unwilling to try new tasks for fear of being embarrassed in front of his classmates. He replies to his teacher and classmates with sarcasm about school. This takes the focus off Calvin's ability. Furthermore, Calvin uses procrastination as a way to avoid failure and embarrassment. These are classic signs of performance-avoidance techniques. He shows a high amount of anxiety and stress with regards to school.
Calvin has developed a sense of learned helplessness and is a pessimistic learner. He has low expectations for himself. His repeated failures have contributed to his avoidance of school and learning. At home, his parents get easily frustrated with Calvin and his great imagination. They have difficulty channeling his energy and keeping him focused. Their impatience feeds his lack of desire for school. In the classroom, Ms. Wormwood rarely encourages Calvin in a positive manner. She criticizes him a majority of the time and makes him an example in front of his classmates. She has created a performance oriented environment. These factors contribute to Calvin's "why bother" attitude. He doesn't care nor is he invested in the outcome of school. He performs in such a manner that he will not succeed at anything.
Ms. Wormwood can do many things to help change Calvin's learning environment and help him change his attitude towards school. As Calvin seems bored at school, Ms. Wormwood could use subjects of interest to Calvin to learn about different topics. For example, he has a love of dinosaurs, and she could integrate that into her study of science, math and literature. Ms. Wormwood could approach her classroom in a different manner by engaging the students in more group-based projects. This would provide opportunities for Calvin to interact in a small group situation and gain confidence.
She could provide step-by-step instructions to give Calvin a better chance at success. In addition, it would be helpful if Ms. Wormwood rewarded him for making an effort in class and even for his sense of humor(used with caution). Ms. Wormwood should use alternative forms of assessment, like a portfolio to see his progress over time. Another option could be doing a presentation where Calvin could present ideas that he is passionate about and assess him by using a rubric that would take into account creativity and enthusiasm. With regards to classroom management, Ms. Wormwood should cease social comparisons between the students. She should foster an environment that promotes a feeling of acceptance for all students. It is important that she stop using humiliating tactics of Calvin in class. It is important that Ms. Wormwood make Calvin understand that he is important and valued in the class.