A Great Teacher Is…

As I continue on my journey as an educator of young minds, I always reflect on how I can inspire my students. I want them energized and engaged in their learning, so much so that they yearn for more each passing day. But….how do I do that?

So I thought about what made me as a student love learning, but more importantly what was my point of view on what made a great teacher. Here goes:
–   Makes learning fun

–   Relatable

–   Youthful

–   Willing to help me 1:1

Although my list from a professional standpoint differs slightly, those attributes I saw so important as a child can still be found on my list today.

–   Differentiates instruction

–   Plans with the end in mind

–   Gets to know learners personally

–   Puts in extra effort and go above-and-beyond

–   Makes learning interesting and relatable

–    Spirals curriculum to ensure skills are not lost

–    Has fun 🙂

My list is written down and kept in my desk. I feel it necessary to constantly reflect on what is going well, what could be going better, and how I can reach all of my learners. My students and I began discussing this idea of what qualities make a good teacher and students brainstormed their own list:

We then discussed the list together. We evaluated how I as a teacher stacked up. (kind of scary, I know.)

                     

But, the great thing is….I constantly reflected. So I was very aware when I was hitting the mark and when I needed to strengthen specific areas.

 

What qualities do you feel make a great teacher?

Are they similar to what you would have said as a child?