English “I Study Hard But Marks Don’t Improve”| Lit Happens S2E12

In this honest 30-minute Teacher Talks episode we tackle two painfully relatable questions every English teacher and student faces.

A student asks: “I study for English but my marks don’t improve. What am I doing wrong?”

A teacher asks: “How do you teach a text you secretly hate?”

We share real classroom stories, quick mindset shifts, and practical strategies that actually move the needle - without extra hours or burnout. Whether you’re a student plateauing or a teacher struggling with disengagement, this episode gives you the clarity and tools to move forward with confidence.

Highlights from the Episode

• Student question unpacked: Why effort alone doesn’t raise marks - the critical shift from quantity to question alignment
• Common trap: Over-preparing content but misreading question verbs and rubric demands
• Practical student strategies: Study the question pattern, cut to create depth, translate feedback precisely
• Teacher question unpacked: The honest reality of teaching a text you dislike
• Teacher survival tips: Shift from “Do I like it?” to “What craft can I admire?”, focus on construction over content, let students re-energise the text
• Key takeaway: Growth in English comes from targeted strategy and honest reflection - not just more hours

Connect with Us

• Instagram: https://instagram.com/lit.happensseniorenglish
• TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@lit.happensse
• Email: lit.happensse@gmail.com
• Resources – available on Teachers Pay Teachers

Drop your biggest “I study but marks don’t improve” moment or “text I secretly hate” story in the comments.

Grab our free feedback translation checklist and weekly practice planner at https://lithappensse.com/

Music produced by

Instagram – @tmob2k

YouTube – @tmob2000

Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube or your favourite platform. Visit https://lithappensse.com/ for more practical guides, downloadable resources and English teacher support across Years 7–12.

Subscribe and join us as we unpack English together — and keep wellbeing at the heart of it.

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