As a teacher, specifically middle school, do you have the ability to communicate w/students in a positive way?

Question

Do you relate to each student indiviually or do you feel like "I'm the teacher you have to do what I say"?

Answer 1

I was a middle school teacher for 6 years, years ago and am now a college prof and University Supervisor of Student teachers. (Science: 7-12) I see that this is the most formative time of the child who is between childhood and adulthood. They want to be recognized for the good in themselves and are fragile when it comes to self esteem. A good teacher at ANY LEVEL will take interest in the "WHOLE" child and get to know them inside and outside of the classroom. Acknowledge outside achievements on the sporting field or in the community. Go to school sponsored events: sports/dances/plays.... Show you care, be a good ear if needed. (I helped a student earn his forestry badge for Boy Scouts on my own time....and attended his Eagle Court of Honor years later.) I found the junior high/middle school area most rewarding...children still able to be molded into good citizens and respectful without excessive peer pressure of HS.
I never "lorded" my rank or position over a child....I treat them all equal in a stress free environment. All my students knew their expectations and we accomplished our lessons and had our rewards in good grades and a closeness for many years.
Some of my students still keep in contact with me after many years and have children of their own.....and have their education struggles too!!!!!

Answer 2

If you can't find something to like about each student and a way to have positive, civil communicatuion with each one, no matter how they act, it's time to get out of teaching! I have 30 years this spring. I've been threatened, verbally attacked, seen it all! I am the adult (someone has to be) so I look to see a person under all of the junk and, yes, I communicate positively with every one.

Answer 3

I teach middle school, and I can't imagine myself teaching any other grade level. They are full of energy!

Middle school is a tough age. The kids, on the outside, may present themselves as being sophisticated and confident, but for a lot of them, it's just an image. I have learned that, as important as it is for teachers to treat them like students, it's equally as important to get to know them as people with individual talents, interests, and personalities. They are more than just bodies in the classroom. When they are older, they may not remember everything you've taught them, but they will remember how much you cared.

Answer 4

One important thing is to not treat them like little kids. You need to maintain high expectations for them. You need to get to know about each student and not classify them in one group. Give them respect and you'll get it... most of the time. A middle school teacher has to be visible... go to dances, plays, sporting functions.. because the kids will see that you care and you're not just there to collect a paycheck.

Answer 5

I try to be as much posistive as I can be.... but honestly, most of thetime I can't do it due to high pressure & stress.. u have a syllabus to finish, & committed with the weekly teaching-what plan.. so, most of the time I find myself just acting "I'm the teacher, I have to do my jub & u r keeping me back, so shut up & listen to what I wanna say"....

I'm really sorry & sad that I act like this in class, but the managers make me sick, & they never give u a break, or appreciate ur efforts, which makes u unable of walking into class with clear mind.

Answer 6

I teach 8th grade students. I communicate with my students by inviting them to think and share their ideas and opinions. I do not try to fool my students into thinking I know everything about everything. There does have to be an understanding however that I am ultimately in charge in my classroom.