Remember, it's all about face. They want to make sure they didn't lose any. I guess it doesn't seem silly to other Chinese, but that explains a lot of things, doesn't it?

I had one student who spoke VERY low, almost a whisper, and i kept telling him to speak louder. His excuse: He could not speak louder because he didnt eat breakfast he was very weak!!!!!
I actually dropped my coffee with that one!!!!!

I understand the comment about face -- I very much understand that comment.  That being said, in my book, either the homework is done or it isn't done.  Unless the reason is one of force majeure, I call the parents.  That usually suffices.  I do have, however, a few parents that simply don't care about their children (amazing, isn't it) and then I need to divise more creative ways.

how about female students calling in sick every month because they are on their period....?