What makes a great teacher?
Study after study shows the single
most important factor determining the quality of the education a child receives
is the quality of his teacher.
What makes a
great teacher? Teaching is one of the most complicated jobs today. It demands
broad knowledge of subject matter, curriculum, and standards; enthusiasm, a
caring attitude, and a love of learning; knowledge of discipline and classroom
management techniques; and a desire to make a difference in the lives of young
people. With all these qualities required, it’s no wonder that it’s hard to
find great teachers.
Here are some
characteristics of great teachers
·
Great teachers set high expectations for all
students. They expect
that all students can and will achieve in their classroom, and they don’t give
up on underachievers.
·
Great teachers have clear, written-out objectives. Effective teachers have
lesson plans that give students a clear idea of what they will be learning,
what the assignments are and what the grading policy is. Assignments have
learning goals and give students ample opportunity to practice new skills. The
teacher is consistent in grading and returns work in a timely manner.
·
Great teachers are prepared and organized. They are in their
classrooms early and ready to teach. They present lessons in a clear and
structured way. Their classrooms are organized in such a way as to minimize
distractions.
·
Great teachers engage students and get them to look
at issues in a variety of ways. Effective teachers use facts as a starting
point, not an end point; they ask “why” questions, look at all sides and
encourage students to predict what will happen next. They ask questions
frequently to make sure students are following along. They try to engage the
whole class, and they don’t allow a few students to dominate the class. They
keep students motivated with varied, lively approaches.
·
Great teachers form strong relationships with their
students and show that they care about them as people.Great teachers are warm,
accessible, enthusiastic and caring. Teachers with these qualities are known to
stay 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.
·
Great teachers are masters of their subject matter. They exhibit expertise
in the subjects they are teaching and spend time continuing to gain new
knowledge in their field. They present material in an enthusiastic manner and
instill a hunger in their students to learn more on their own.
·
Great teachers communicate frequently with parents. They reach parents
through conferences and frequent written reports home. They don’t hesitate to
pick up the telephone to call a parent if they are concerned about a student.
·
by: GreatSchools Staff
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