Hi Timothy, I think students derive their many reasons why they think a class is good or if their teacher cares - we don't need to add to their ideas by our lack of preparedness. I think just being there when students arrive, to be able to answer a question, explin something, or even just chat about general goings on helps create a sense of caring. Of course this means getting copies made, resources ready, and class organized has to precede this important before-class visiting. Barry Westling