Real Conversations with Real Students

Student (with something that looks like Tylenol in hand): How do I drink this?

Teacher: The medicine? You don't drink medicine, you take it, and what do you mean?

Student: How should I take it?

Teacher: Are you seriously asking me this? I assume you swallow it.

Student: Can I go to the infirmary and take it with a glass of water? (the infirmary is conveniently down 3 flights of stairs and across the school)

Teacher: No. There is a water fountain in the hallway.

Student: But how do I take it?

Teacher: Have you never used a water fountain?

Student: No, I have. But how do I take the pill?

Teacher: I cannot believe you are asking me this. I imagine you put the water in your mouth and swallow, like you would with a glass of water.

Student: (Walks slowly to the garbage can to discard some scrap paper and never goes to take the medicine).

Teacher (with incredulous smile on face): Really. I cannot believe the conversation we just had.