Pay attention during class, and always put forth a serious effort to understand what your teacher is sharing with the class. At the very least, come to school prepared to learn, with the books and writing utensils you need for each class, and your homework assignments complete. Never skip class! Also try try try not to be late! Teachers often do not like the students who are constantly late because it shows you do not care about taking part in your education.
Feel free to ask questions that expand upon the content in class. For instance, after a lecture about what stars are made of, ask something like “Why is it that some stars in our sky are brighter than others?” Catch your teacher after class to ask for personal insight. Say something like, “Miss Markey, I’ve really been enjoying the section we’ve been studying on the night sky. Do you have a favorite place to look at the stars?”
This will allow you to get to know your favorite teacher better. You’ll also likely wind up learning more about the subjects they teach, and may find that you share some of your teacher’s interests. It’s alright if you don’t have any ideas about how to be more involved in. Ask your teacher how you can contribute by saying something like, “Is there any way I can dive deeper into this material with you? I’d be happy to help set up for our next class!”
Outside of the classroom, you and your teacher will get the chance to talk more about other things that are important. These conversations may even prove to be equally important as the discussions held during class. For instance, these conversations might touch on facing challenges and finding creative solutions to address them, or working hard to achieve personal goals. Ask general questions as well as specific ones. Ask something like “How can I make my drawing look more realistic?” or “Have you ever tried to learn something that was really hard at first? How did you get better?”
If you each have a moment when you pass one another in the hallway, stop to chat. Ask something like “What’s the next thing you’re looking forward to?” You may even learn something new and interesting about your teacher. You can keep it simple too. A quick “see you tomorrow” on the way out of class lets your teacher know you’re glad to be in their class – and that alone is significant.
Don’t hesitate to ask your teacher questions about life outside of the material you’re learning in the classroom. For instance, if you’ve been wondering about how to approach a certain issue with one of your friends, say something like “Can I ask you about something that’s not related to class?” Your teacher will likely be happy to talk to you about whatever.
Not only do these sorts of questions lead to quality conversations, you’ll also come to recognize the sorts of things and ideas that your teacher values.
It may be easier to convey your gratitude in a letter. Remember that your teacher will likely be happy to hear your appreciation. Include an illustration if you’re feeling creative - it may even end up on the wall of your teacher’s office. In the future, whenever you’re back in town, make a point of visiting old teachers. They will immensely appreciate this gesture, as it indicates that you value the impact they made on your life.
Ask yourself: If you were a teacher, what sort of relationship would you want with your students?
Similarly, if you’re caught passing a note or otherwise not paying attention, don’t overreact. Your teacher is not attacking you, they are simply bringing your attention back to the classroom. Apologize after class and know that your teacher will forgive you.
If you feel the need to do so, request a meeting with the teacher and another adult. This can be helpful to discuss any potential problems and create a more comfortable atmosphere for both you and your teacher.
Do not attempt to flirt with your teacher. This places them in an uncomfortable position, and is disrespectful to them and your other classmates. If a teacher makes romantic comments towards you, politely point out that you are their student. If you are in any way uncomfortable with what a teacher says to you, tell your parents as well as another school employee.
