One of the method I use is try to know the students in the first class, their backgrund and ask them how do they think the class is going to help them in their future. I then reinforce with that class helps them in attaining their goal. I also help them build confidence that they can earn an A in the class by working hard. I also try to give examples from my past as a student how I dealt with the difficult content in course (model), at the same time encouraging them and believeing in them that they can do better. I pay very close attention to each of them and even ask them if they are late if everything is ok.
