Find out by tactful questioning, changing seats during one period, etc.,
just why a certain child persists in whispering. Ascertain whether the
one to whom he whispers gets or gives information and arrange for the
dependent one to get direct help from you, or from some fellow pupil,
after instructions have been given.
Never keep a child in at recess time for any other reason than that he
has already had recreation.
Test Freddie’s hearing. It may be that some defect in that respect has
made it impossible for him to catch some of the explanations given by
the teacher.
If hearing is found to be normal, test his vision. Possibly he can not
see all the lessons that are placed on the board. Perhaps, also, the
light may shine on the board in such a way that he can not see the
writing.