How to talk your way out of detention

Talking your way out of detention can be difficult. The key is to be respectful, calm and contrite. If you look like you seriously regret what you did, or can offer an explanation, you might just walk away free. Read on to learn how to talk your way out of detention.

Difficulty:

Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Don't shout out immediately. Wait until after class to discuss the matter with your teacher.

2. Understand why you have been detained. Did you break a rule? Is it something you have done repeatedly or just once? Is it serious, or minor? Is the teacher singling you out and, if so, why?

3. Speak calmly to your teacher. Whatever happens, don't lose your temper, insult your teacher, sulk, pout or storm out of the room. If you can't keep your cool, don't bother trying to talk your way out of detention. Chances are, you will only make things worse for yourself.

4. If you did something wrong and you know it, be contrite. Tell the teacher you won't do it again and that you are sorry for acting out of line. Show remorse, say your parents will kill you, tell your teacher about all the stress you've been under or give any other excuse. If you think crying might work, now would be the time.

5. If you think you are being punished disproportionately or unfairly singled out, respectfully disagree with the teacher's decision to detain you. Calmly explain why you think it is unfair. It might help here to concede some ground. Your teacher will probably react better to "It was wrong of me to speak in class and I'm sorry, but I feel like you are singling me out" than "You are being totally unfair. Speaking up in class is not a big deal. You let everyone else chat whenever they want to."

6. Respectfully listen when your teacher responds, then make your own response. Sometimes, just talking to your teacher and showing that you understand his concerns is enough to convince him to go back on the detention.