For example, you might have a teacher who makes corny jokes and also isn’t clear about what the homework assignment is. You might be able to ignore the jokes, but you could ask your teacher if he could post the homework assignment on the board before the end of class. A very strict teacher might be annoying, especially if you learn better in a more relaxed environment. But if your teacher deliberately frightens or humiliates students, you may need to talk to a parent or other adult in the school about the situation.
If you realize that you are contributing to a bad situation, change your behavior – and apologize for it. For example, you might say: “I’m sorry that I didn’t pay attention in class yesterday. I know math is important, and I want to do better. ” Don’t turn your apology into an opportunity to criticize: don’t say, for example, “I’m sorry I fell asleep – it’s just that you’re so boring. ”
Teachers often appreciate students who take initiative. Rather than asking, “How can I get a good grade?” try approaching a difficult teacher with a specific plan and ask for feedback. For instance, you could say: “I’m planning to study for this exam by re-reading the assigned chapters and making flashcards with the vocabulary. Does that sound like a good plan to you? Would you suggest anything else?”
Ask questions that show that you’re doing the reading and engaging with the material. Burnt-out teachers may become more engaged and lively if they see that their students are genuinely interested. Don’t only talk to your teacher to ask for extensions on deadlines or other favors. Thank her for a particularly clear explanation or an assignment that really helped you to learn.
Yelling frequently, belittling students, or deliberately humiliating students. Being very disorganized. This might include losing assignments or failing to enter grades. If the teacher can’t teach in a way that allows you to learn. Handing out work without teaching material.
Read the e-mail over before your parent sends it, if possible, to make sure that your parent has understood the issues.
For example, teachers should not make comments such as, “If you were older, I would date you,” or other remarks that seem to suggest or invite a romantic relationship. Sometimes these comments can seem flattering. However, they are an abuse of the teacher-student relationship. Teachers should not single students out for humiliation or invite other students to mock them. Reprimanding students in this fashion is inappropriate, bullying behavior. While it’s normal for a teacher to impose reasonable consequences or speak sternly to a student, she should not scream, subject a student to a lengthy tirade, or threaten a student with disproportionate punishments. [4] X Research source
Physical or sexual abuse should be reported to the police if you feel safe doing so. You can also seek out a therapist or counselor and disclose what’s happening. If you don’t feel able to speak to anyone, call a hotline that specializes in child abuse. [8] X Research source
For example, if you are in a class that is supposed to be preparing you for a set exam, find published older versions of that exam in your library. Work your way through one of them and identify what you still need to learn. Make use of your textbook. Most textbooks have sample questions and answers at the ends of chapters. Set a goal of being able to answer 80% of the relevant questions correctly.
For example, if your foreign language teacher is horrible, you might ask another teacher in the language department for advice on learning and practicing that language. Don’t criticize your teacher, but just ask for resources to help you learn outside the classroom.
Take turns teaching one another the key concepts each week. Use a white board or chart paper to sketch out and demonstrate ideas. Quiz one another using flashcards to help retain information.
Talk to a trusted teacher or guidance counselor about your concerns. Your school may also have a dedicated Accessibility or Accommodations office which will be able to help you access evaluation and support.
