I'm sorry that there was such a negative response to the story telling. I have some days like that. Some times we have to treat it like a game. I have to act practically the clown and get all excited and involved in the story as I say each sentence. Even then there are days that the response is minimal. Other days, the students will play along. When they do, they comment on how the class seems to go more quickly.

Lately I've taken to posting the week's grades identified only by student id number in random order. Every Monday the students look to see how their participation and other work is affecting their grade. They like to see their grades high and tend to comply and cooperate more when they are hopeful for a good grade. Once their grades are low they give up, I think.

Kudos to the two who stopped to give their apologies. It really does help.

I'm also sorry it was difficult to find an Algebra II book. But I'm glad you found other interesting things on your trip.