You know those kids who stroll into class a few minutes late, sit at the back of the room so they can text, and do their best to avoid teachers at all costs? The purpose of this post is to convince you not to be like them.
This post is to encourage you to develop positive relationships with your teachers.
Why?
Because having strong relationships with your teachers can help you both academically and socially in a variety of ways. Here are a few examples:
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- You may feel more comfortable asking them for help with schoolwork, and they may go out of their way to help you.
- They may be more willing to write you a college or job recommendation; plus, they will likely write you a stronger one if you have a personal connection.
- Most teachers use a rubric for grading to make grades as fair and accurate as possible. But if you are between grade, a teacher may bump your grade up if she knows you have been working particularly hard or have shown a strong interest in her subject.
- A positive relationship with the teacher means a safer learning environment in which you are more likely to take academic risks such as asking questions and contributing to class discussions. Being part of the conversation is much more fun than hiding in the back of the class; plus, you’ll learn more.
- Teachers can be the key to opportunity. They are often the ones who decide who gets the awards, the volunteer positions, and the leadership roles.
- Getting along with your teachers means you will have more allies and positive role models at school who can help you not only academically, but socially.
So how do you build strong relationships with your teachers?
Basic respect and manners can go a long way.
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- Show up to class on time.
- Say hello and ask how they’re doing (teachers are people with feelings, too!).
- Have your computer or paper and pencil out so you can take notes.
Let them know you care.
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- Ask questions in class and join the conversation. Most teachers want students to speak up, because they want you to be interested in the subject matter.
- Reach out to them outside of class.
- Say hello in the hallway.
- Schedule a meeting to talk about the subject matter, particularly if you have a big paper or test coming up.
Show them how hard you’re working.
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- Take notes in class.
- Do your homework.
- Take advantage of extra credit opportunities.
These are just some of the ways that you will benefit from a good relationship with your teachers. Your teachers benefit too because they will feel like they’re really making a difference, which is why most people become teachers in the first place.
