I need to write a reference are there any good examples?

Question

This is for someone I used to teach that is applying for University

Answer 1

Here's How:

1. Start by identifying your relationship with the person for whom you're writing the reference letter.
2. State how long have you have known or worked with the person.
3. Picture the person in his or her job role.
4. Point out a variety of positive traits while focusing on work ethics, accomplishments, skills, and significant contributions (use specific examples).
5. If for business reasons you're sorry to see this person go, say so.
6. Avoid vague, powerless words such as nice, good, fine and reasonable.
7. Use words such as excellent, superior, instrumental, creative, innovative, efficient, dependable, articulate, meticulous, self-starter and confident.
8. Start wrapping it up with a recommendation to hire.
9. Offer to provide more information.
10. State the best time and place the recipient can reach you.
11. Proofread your reference letter and make corrections.

Tips:

1. If you don't feel comfortable writing a reference letter, don't. A vague or fabricated letter might do more harm than good.
2. Type your reference letter in a standard business format.
3. Keep it brief.

http://jobsearchtech.about.com/cs/referenceletters1/ht/referenceletter.htm

Answer 2

First and foremost, your reference should simply be honest, concise and brief. Write your reference in a similar format to how a teacher would write a report about a pupil. State the length of time you have taught this person, and any good points that you have observed.
What you have to say about the person is obviously a salient issue, however, it can also be what you do not say which makes a point. That is to say, If you feel that your ex-student is exemplary, then say so. If this is not the case and you feel that they are not 'university material;' then purely explain the period of time you taught them, how their attendance was, and the quality of work which they presented. Stay positive, objective, and above all professional. You can offer to be available to correspond with them, whether it be by letter or telephone if they have any further questions.
All the best. :o)

Answer 3

As a teacher, I would think you should be able to formulate a letter of reference fairy easily. Maybe you are having writers block because you don't really believe your former student deserves your letter of reference, if that's the case, tell the kid the truth, but I have to be honest with you, the educational system in this country is in shambles and if you really need to go to Yahoo Q&A for advice on how to write a simple letter of reference and YOU ARE A TEACHER, then you are a GLARING example of what is wrong with our schools today, please find another line of work so that other students don't have to suffer from your lack of basic teaching skills

Answer 4

If you don't know what to write you shouldn't be in a position to write a reference.

Try, how long you have known them, in what capacity and positive things about them without gushing.

Answer 5

Be honest, objective and enlightened. Tell about their strong points... and reinforce their hopes for the future as you believe they are capable of fulfilling.