Mr. Chatty McShutupperson -

While I agree with you that tests are not the only way to measure student comprehension, you seem a bit confused. You see, comprehension is also not best measured by your ability to talk incessantly and out-of-turn. You will not be graded based on your outlandish comments (although I really wish the professor would evaluate you that way). No one thinks your jokes are funny and I honestly believe that we all may be dumber for having sat in class with you for three hours.

Also, a simple head-nod is an effective method of communicating to the professor that you are an active listener. It is not necessary to "amen" or "uh-huh" or "I see" everything the professor says. I know your worldview rarely extends beyond yourself, but there are 22 people in this class. What you are doing is distracting the rest of the students. By that same token, do not ask questions specific to your situation during class time. You may not have heard (they keep it super-secret), but professors have a little something called "Office Hours." Look into it.

When you do insist on asking inane questions, could you do me a favor and listen to the professor's response? I know you only asked to show us all how smart and critically-thinking you are, but it is insulting to everyone when you ask a question and then turn around and seek validation from us rather than a response from the professor. Have you noticed that no one's giving you a thumbs-up for your totally amazing, excellent input?

Please - be considerate of the rest of us. I know it's asking a lot, but I promise it will make you a good better more tolerable person. Seriously.

Jesus loves you. But the rest of us just wish you'd shut up.

Bethiclaus