Summarize the following:
Don't try to dodge the issue if you cheated and your teacher caught you because it likely will not prevent you from getting into trouble. Instead, explain why you cheated. Be clear about why you made that choice. For example, if you didn't have time to study or couldn't grasp the material, be straightforward about it. You can say something like, "I made the choice to cheat because I didn't have time to study, which was in error. Next time, I will give myself more time to properly prepare." Be clear about which assignment or test you cheated on. If it was just on one assignment, you will want to clarify that you did not cheat on other assignments. Be aware that your teacher will probably want to review your previous work or keep a closer eye on your future work to make sure cheating is truly a one-time incident. If you cheated because you were struggling in the class, tell the teacher you need some additional help in the subject. Be specific about which elements of the course material you don't understand. They may be able to recommend a tutor or some additional resources. You could say: "I am not sure I understand how to measure the surface area. This was one of the reasons why I cheated on the test. Do you know of any tutors who might be able to help me understand this topic?" If you received a failing grade for cheating on a test or assignment, ask for a makeup assignment or extra credit work to start salvaging your grade. Your teacher might be able to give you a make-up assignment or have you do more problems than other students so that you can catch up. Being apologetic may lessen the consequences and punishment from cheating, but you will need to be genuine. You will need to take personal responsibility to move on from the incident. Tell your teacher the cheating was out of character for you and not something you intend to do again in the future. Although you will still likely be punished for cheating or plagiarizing, being remorseful can help minimize the lasting effects to your academic reputation. You could say: "I am very sorry that I cheated on last week's test. I understand that this was a wrongdoing and that my actions have consequences that I will need to face. At the same time I also want to reassure you that this was a one-time incident and it will not happen again."
Own up to your actions. Ask for help. Ask for extra credit. Show remorse.