What makes great teaching?

 The question of what makes a teacher great has varied throughout history. It used to be the ability to wrangle in boys and make them prepared enough to gain a decent job. Thankfully, that definition has changed drastically. While some people still may believe that a teacher's only job is to provide kids with enough knowledge to continue to the next level, most teachers view themselves on an entirely different level. Teaching can become difficult at times, but it is worth it knowing that we are helping the future generations thrive on our planet. There are many movies out there that depict a typical "good" and "bad" teacher. The issue is, these stereotypes can have harmful effects on teachers. We do not wish to be compared to John Keating or Elizabeth Halsey. Just like most people, we want to be able to hold up our individual values without being compared to an on-screen persona. 

In order for us to achieve good teaching, I believe that it starts with getting to know our students. We must come to understand that each of our students is unique with their own interest and cultures. Children must be seen as individuals in order to create a safe and caring environment. Great teaching also means straying from what is expected, and welcoming the unknown. We must be willing to educate children on topics that matter as well as things that may interest them outside of the standard curriculum. Teaching varies for everyone, but the one thing that everyone has in common is the passion to help children learn and help them mold their identities.

Comments

  1. Ms. ReddingDecember 3, 2021 at 7:02 PM

    Hi Payton, let me just say that I really did enjoy your article and I 100% agree with you that over the years the goals of teaching have changed so much. And I think that in the past few years many teacher are focused on creating a relationship with their students so that they can form lessons that are tailored to their class that they have that one year. Because as an educator you will have so many students come through your doors no two being alike, and being able to get your students and what drives them to want to do better helps creat a welcoming atmosphere. I also think that one aspect of a great teacher and great teaching is the ability to help students personal growth there when those students leave your classroom at the end of the year you should feel like you have not only helped them thrive educationally but as a person and functioning member of society.

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