Cameras on—students in different worlds, talking to unseen friends, scanning phones for signs of popularity, staring out large, sunny windows.

Daily query—questions anyone? Silence, stares, muted in unison.

Class over—emotionless waves, quick exits, blank screen.

Calendar reminder—next class in 15 minutes, stand, stretch, and sit again.

Paul W. Reid teaches writing at CVTC in Wisconsin.