I teach an introductory honors class in American Government at my university. About 10,000 students are enrolled here. It is a small class consisting of only 13 students. Most of them are first year students. These students are supposed to be the best and the brightest. I typically love teaching these classes.

On the first day of class (Monday) I asked the students to fill out a short survey. It was anonymous. One of the questions I asked them was to name the 2 senators from Illinois. Only five of the students could do this. I was not surprised that they did not know Senator Durban. But three of the students could not name either senator. Barack Obama is from Illinois. How could they not know this??? Then three of the students did not know who the vice president is. I am shocked. Now I am getting sick to my stomach. Six of the students could not name the Democratic presidential and vice presidential candidates, although six of them did name Obama. Finally only ten of the students could identify McCain, although one student did know that the Republican candidate was someone named John. I don't know about all of you, but both scare and frustrate me. Oh, I should also mention that five students could not list their favorite book or the last book they read for pleasure. Of course, they all had a favorite movie.

Class tomorrow sure is going to be interesting! I think the "mean" professor is going to make an appearance. How can I get these kids to care?