Which of the following describes a "dependent underachiever" rather than a student with a learning disability?

The characteristic of a "dependent underachiever" is best encapsulated in situations where the student consistently requires assistance or clarification, regardless of how information is delivered. This reflects a type of dependence on external support to achieve understanding and can indicate a lack of self-directed learning skills or confidence in their abilities.

In the context of the other options, while some may involve seeking help or clarification, they suggest different contexts or conditions under which the student is struggling. For example, asking for explanations only when instructions are presented in a certain way indicates that the student may understand the content if it is presented differently, distinguishing it from an inherent dependence on help. Learning better in a one-to-one setting but still performing poorly in group work indicates variability in performance that may not align with the consistent dependency seen in a dependent underachiever. Finally, an attitude of "poor me" also implies emotional responses and potential self-perception issues rather than a consistent need for assistance across all learning situations.

Thus, the alignment of needing explanations irrespective of how the material is delivered aligns perfectly with the fundamental description of a dependent underachiever.