It is imperative to know to help students learn on how to prepare for class.
You must be consistent in your follow-up on their assignments. If you do not follow up on assignments students quickly learn that they don't have to complete them. If you assign something, set a due date and then collect the material for grading. This along with reminders of due dates will encourage unprepared students to complete assignments.
Working with students who blame others for their problems includes helping them to own the responsibility for completing assignments, projects, and activities. Have them work in groups so that they can see the value of contributions from everyone, including themselves. They will see that if they don't complete their work, the other group members can't complete their work.
