Early in my teaching experience, I heard too many “unreal” stories for unfinished homework. Then I grew less trusting and ________ any excuse. When the students at my new school didn’t finish homework, I never asked why. Instead, I just sighed (叹气) loudly and recorded a zero in the grade book.

One day, Anthony came to me. “Could I talk to you?” he asked ________, “I know you said no excuse, but I don’t want you to think I’m ________ because I often come without my homework.” He then looked up at me for the first time. “It’s just that... my dad moved out, and my mom works at night, so I have to look after my little brothers. Often, they cry a lot, and it’s hard for me to pay attention...”

I was about to ask why he didn’t tell me earlier when I suddenly realized why. So I ________ the question. “Would it help if you stayed after school and worked on your homework before you go home?” He nodded (点头) hard.

Anthony became the first student in my after-school study group. Several days later, Terrell ________ him, followed by Sandy and Randy. Before long, I had a room full of students. Their stories were not funny, but all very ________:

The power company cut off our lights because we couldn’t pay the bill.

My dad says schoolwork is just a waste of time.

We don’t have any paper in the house.

I discovered not all kids come from families that are ________. Not all kids have a quiet bedroom with a desk and study light. Some don’t even have home. Most importantly, I learned that “I’ll listen” ________ better than “No excuse!”