Hi Laurie, You do have a major challenge with the current structure you are working in. I don't have a good answer for your question since you are already doing the things that I would suggest to get the students motivated. I would talk with the administration about possible revisions in the grading scheme. There needs to be a "pay off" for the students if they work hard. This pay off should be an A if it is earned rather than pass/fail. Is it possible to have a contest of some kind for the development and writing of a creative menu? Some college recognition for the winner. Anything along this line to reward the hard work of students. Just some ideas for you to think about. Gary