IN THE CLASSROOM
Making the most of your time in the classroom requires some effort on your part. It can become an atmosphere for achievement, or a complete waste of time. It is up to you to decide how you choose to look at it.
It is entirely dependant on your attitude, and you are the only one who is responsible for your attitude, and the way you look at your time spent in the classroom.
You should look at your teachers as a partner. A partner whose goal is to assist you with your learning and education. This is incredibly important because the quality of your education, and your success as a student will have a direct effect on the quality of your future, and the success of your career.
Some people are in a classroom because they have to be there as a result of their parents wishes, or because of state law. These individuals will either choose to make the most of their classroom time, or they will decide that it is simply an opportunity to socialize.
Others choose to look at their classroom time as an opportunity to learn so that they can better themselves, and create a life that they can be proud of.
What kind of student are you?
Are you the kind of student that your teacher enjoys having in class? Or are you the kind of student who causes distractions that take away from the learning environment?
Manners are what will set you apart from the rest. If you always approach a teacher with respect, you will find that the teacher will show you respect in return.
Rather that asking,"Why did you give me such a terrible mark on my paper?", try asking, "Do you have any suggestions that would have helped me get a better grade next time?". And if you dont want to see bad mark, use essay help.
The first approach is combative and negative. The second is simply curious, and shows a desire to improve.
Which do you think a teacher is more likely to respond to favorably? How do you think that teacher will look at your next assignment?
By politely asking for honest feedback so that you can improve your performance, you are letting the teacher know that you value their opinion, and that you are looking to them to help you achieve greater success. You are making a partner out of your teacher.
Showing respect for your teacher, and the classroom environment starts with being on time, and being prepared. If you are late, make sure it is for a good reason, and explain yourself to the teacher with respect, always admitting that you are the one who is responsible. Never try to pass the blame to someone else.
Here is an example:
Mr. Smith, I was late because my friend needed my help getting into their locker, and it was stuck so I didn't have enough time to get here before the bell rang.
OR
Mr Smith, I'm really sorry I was late. I was having locker problems. I thought about going to the office for help, but I wanted to get here as soon as I could. If you want me to, I'll go there now, and see if I can get someone to help me. Otherwise, I'll take care of it later during lunch or study hall.
Which do you think the teacher will respond well to?
Here are some other suggestions that you can use to make certain that you always show respect for your teacher, and make them into a partner in learning.
Always show up prepared. This means having your textbook, pens or pencils, paper, and any other specialized tools that you will need like rulers, calculators, compass, etc.
Imagine if you were on a football team, and showed up to practice without your helmet. Or if you were in band, and forgot to bring your instrument?
Don't start putting on your jacket, and getting ready to leave five minutes before class is over. Keep your mind focused on the classroom, the teacher, the subject at hand. Don't be one of those students that is always looking at the clock, waiting for the bell to ring.
If you are given an assignment, don't ask, "How long does it have to be?", ask "What would you like us to include?"
When you approach the teacher's desk, stand there with your hands at your side, stand up straight, and always look your teacher in the eye. Don't put your hands on their desk, and lean over them. Don't stand there, and look out the window, or at your classmates.
Ask questions that are directly related to the discussion at hand. Never ask an unrelated question. If necessary, take a few minutes after class to pose your question. If it take some extra time, your teacher will certainly be willing to give you a note for your next class.
Always write down your assignments so that you will understand them clearly.
If you follow these examples, and apply them in your day to day classroom environment, you will find that your grades will be among the best in class, you will have the respect of your teacher, and you will gain much more knowledge as well.