Christine,
Great. I think most students are nearly always able to do the required work with at least minimal understanding. It's usually some "back side of their life" event that may be interfering with thier progress (work, money, childcare, transportation, spousal, illness, etc.). Sharing helpful stategies to assist students with life events shows we care and also may offer a more rational (non-emotional) approach to resolving or approaching personal situations.
Barry Westling