In-class "exit" essay topic

In this assignment, you will develop a 3-page “case study” of an effective teacher. Instead of developing a caricature, however, you will examine the life and work of a real person and teacher—a teacher who has had you in his/her classroom. Discuss a teacher you have worked with during your primary or secondary education. Include detailed description of her/his character traits, actions, and assignments as you believe are relevant to his/her success as a teacher. Ask yourself, why did s/he reach me? Compare this teacher to those who did not motivate you or who could not keep you awake, etc. Each trait or part of your definition must be developed with examples of this teacher in action. Recreate interactions between students and teacher. Remember, words like “good,” “effective,” “well-meaning,” and “bad,” are empty without examples of what they mean to you. Because language is not transparent—speakers and hearers often misunderstand our use of even “simple” words—examples of our labels in context are essential. The reader needs to be able to develop a portrait in his/her mind. Think, label, and show.