Steps To Deal With A Mean Teacher

Posted by teacher on October 13, 2011

1. Always do your homework. It doesn’t matter if all the answers are correct, but handing it in on time shows that you’ve committed yourself to your work. Teachers never tell you off for getting questions wrong. Always at least make your best attempt. They will correct you and still helps you learn.

2. Pay attention in class. Show that you are at least trying to learn the material. Don’t talk to your friends when the teacher is talking; this can be a huge pet peeve for teachers and they remember. It will end up on your report card if you do this often.

3. Take notes. Taking good notes is a very important part of being a good student. It will also show that you are trying to understand what he or she is teaching. When it is not necessary to take notes, make eye contact with the teacher.

4. Always bring school supplies. It’s okay if you forget once or twice, but if you are always asking for a pencil or a piece of paper, your teacher is liable to get angry. Or ask a friend before class!

5. Always be on time. Just as with the school supplies, it is okay to be late once or perhaps even twice, but the teacher is liable to get angry. Get a watch if you are regularly late.

6. Ask questions. Teachers don’t mind questions, in fact, they show that you are at least learning something. However, make sure that the question is relevant to the topic. Idiotic or random questions will surely not fly, and don’t ask questions that you already know the answer to, because that will just make you seem like you are asking questions on purpose so that you’ll seem really smart. If you ask a question and are told to sit down and figure it out, give it one more try. If you ask again and the teacher won’t help, be sure to ask a parent or other teacher for assistance. Some teachers think that if you keep trying you will “get it”. This isn’t always the case, and you should have help when you need it. Never be afraid to ask questions, because if you don’t actually know the material you will be in an even worse position. However, do not ask questions that the teacher has already answered.

7. Be polite. Refer to them as “Mrs.” or “Mr”. Call them “sir” or “ma’am”. A lot of teachers are sticklers for politeness. Give it a try.

8. Don’t argue. As rude or unfair as teachers can be, don’t argue or talk back to them. Arguing is futile. It’s not like the teacher will simply admit they were wrong because you said so. If they yell at you, simply apologize, and promise it won’t happen again. To deal with unfairness, rather then arguing, talk to your parents or guidance counselor about it. But in some cases if they are a bit understanding state your point even if you think they won’t agree with it, they might cut you some slack.

9. Speak gently, and concisely. Using gentle, kind words can help your teacher realize any faults within his or herself. Thinking before you speak, and thereby eliminating any “um…” or “uh…” sounds makes you sound mature and under control, which can help the teacher learn to like you.

10. Go the extra mile. When seeing the teacher in the hallway or outside of class, smile and greet them politely. If you really want to make an effort, say ‘Hello’ and ‘Good-bye’ each time you enter or leave the classroom. Before holiday breaks, bring your teacher a small gift, such as a baked goods. The gift can be a major turning point in your relationship with the teacher. Try to do things for your teacher. Stay after school and help them clean up, organize books without being asked, etc. Never gossip about your teacher because somehow, this gossip will always reach the ears of the teacher.