[Andrea's Mom]

It's always interesting to me to see how hard students would be on each other if they were the teacher. Ya'all are tough!

All points made in this discussion are valid and represent thoughtful consideration of the dilemma.

I'll weigh in as a teacher. I too am guilty of punishment assignments. It is very irritating to put effort into planning meaningful lessons and have students blow them off. It is tempting to act on the "I'll get them" reaction.

That being said, it appears unclear whether not grading the assignment meant it was not required. Does this teacher often give required assignments that are not graded? Many times, punishment assignments are just busy work, but this teacher took the time to craft a lesson with clear expectations.

Straying from the syllabus at this time of the year is the problem. Everyone is stressed out and has their time scheduled down to the minute. Students work, have other assignments and exams they are preparing for. Also, if 300 points is a significant percentage of the overall points, the assignment deserves more time for consideration.

I hate to say things aren't fair - I've been telling my daughters since they were little kids that life isn't fair and that you need to learn to deal with angry and unpleasant people. At the same time, the worst decisions I've ever made in disciplining them OR my students have been arbitrary.

I'd talk to the teacher. Some of us are quite approachable. It may not change the outcome, but a respectful exchange of opinion is healthy.

I for one, would be interested in the conclusion of your moral dilemma.