Characteristics of a Good Teacher: What it Takes to Make the Grade

Many people have had some type of education, whether it was grade school, high school, college, tutoring, formal or informal. Many people remember a special teacher because of how he or she presented him or herself to students. Anyone can be a teacher, but a good teacher displays certain characteristics that are found both in and outside the classroom.

A good teacher displays self confidence. She has control of the classroom and the students know who is in charge. The teacher takes pride in her work and strives for excellence. She knows what to teach and how to teach it.

A good teacher is a consumer of knowledge. He knows the subject material and is always searching for new methods and ideas to use. He shares his knowledge with his students and colleagues. A good teacher is also looking for ideas to develop himself professionally and personally.

A good teacher is prepared. She prepares her lessons and materials in advance. She follows a regular routing, is organized and has activities readily available. She is also prepared for lessons that do not go as planned. She has backup plans and is willing to change her plans if needed.

A good teacher listens. She listens to her students engage in conversations with one another and encourages her students to engage in conversation with her as well. She is tuned in when a student is having difficulty understanding subject material or when a student is having personal issues. She knows when to step in and when to back off.

A good teacher motivates. He motivates his students to learn and to take on projects independently. He has an enthusiasm that is contagious to his students and colleagues.

A good teacher is fair. She gives all of her students a chance to succeed in her classroom even when the conditions at home are not favorable for the student. She allows students to do their best and recognizes those that try.

A good teacher has a sense of humor. He knows when to laugh at himself and when to laugh with the class. Humor within the classroom can ease any frustration that the teacher and/or student may be experiencing at that moment.

A good teacher has a passion for teaching. Teaching is her number one priority. She talks, writes, and breathes teaching. She wants to make a difference in the lives of her students even if it is just one and gives her best in her classroom.

Anyone can be a teacher, but only few can become good teachers. The development of a good teacher is a slow, ongoing process. It requires dedication and discipline to the profession.