What makes me a great teacher? A great teacher changes the lives of their students forever, they instill confidence and knowledge in every students who crosses their path. Teaching is one of standards, a caring attitude , a love of learning, knowledge of discipline, classroom management techniques and the desire to make the difference in the lives of young people. With all these qualities required, it is no wonder that it is hard to find a great teacher.
Great teachers routinely evolve their teaching strategies and lesson plans to cater to their students needs. Effective teachers have lesson plans that give a student a clear idea of what they will be learning, what the assignments are and what the grading policy is. He or she encourages students and family participation in their learning programs and advocate learning opportunities outside of the classroom. A great teacher should be focused on student learning and increasing the value of class time. Great teachers also set a high expectation for all his/her students. They expect that all students or learners can and will achieve in their classroom and they do not give up on underachievers. Great teachers are also prepared and always organized. They are always in their classroom early and ready to teach. They present their lessons in a clear and structured way. Their classroom are organized in such a way to minimize distractions. Their classrooms are conducive for learning.
A great teacher is also warm, accessible and caring. Teachers with these qualities are known to say after school and make themselves available to students and parents who need them. They are involved in school wide committees and activities, and they demonstrate a commitment to the school. Another way to become a great teacher is that he/she must have a mastery of their subject matter. They exhibit expertise in the subject they are teaching and spend time continuing to gain new knowledge in their field. They present materials in a passionate manner and instill a hunger in their students to learn more on their own. Great teachers communicate frequently with parents. They reach parents or guardians through conference and frequent written reports. They do not also hesitate to do a phone call to a parents or guardian of their students if they have concerned. In order to become a great teacher, one should have and practice these qualities.
By: JOAN S. RUEDA | Teacher I | Bataan National High School
