Even if you aren’t necessarily interested in the topic, participating in the class discussion will show your teacher that you’re trying to learn, which will make them like you more. You may find that making an effort to participate in the class gets you interested in the subjects being taught.
If you’re struggling with an assignment, ask for help. Your teacher wants you to learn, so asking them for help if you’re having trouble shows them that you’re interested in learning. Do your homework as soon as you can, rather than waiting until the last minute. Be honest with your teacher if you forget to do your homework. They may be upset, but they’ll appreciate that you told them the truth.
Asking questions that you already have been given the answer to show a teacher that you’re lazy and that you weren’t listening to them when they gave you directions.
If you have no idea what the answer is, maintain eye contact with your teacher so they can see that you’re listening but you don’t have the answer. Some questions are rhetorical and aren’t meant to be answered. Pay attention in class so you can tell when your teacher really wants an answer to their question. It’s okay to get an answer wrong! That’s part of learning, and your teacher will like that you made an effort.
For example, ask a thoughtful question about the assigned reading like, “I understand that the main character had a traumatic childhood, is that why he’s unable to fully commit to the woman who loves him?” Ask questions that are related to the course to show the teacher that you’re paying attention.
For example, many literature textbooks include supplemental essays and readings at the back that expand on the ideas of the text. Read the supplemental materials for an even deeper understanding of the work. Go online and search for more information about the subject that you can use to ask questions in class. Ask your teacher for more information or materials about the subject. They’ll love that you’re interested enough to learn more about it.
Bring all of the materials that you need for class with you.
Allow other people a chance to speak and ask questions. Never insult or ridicule one of your peers. You may have to work with your peers for a group project, so be kind and respectful towards them.
Allow other people a chance to speak and ask questions. Never insult or ridicule one of your peers. You may have to work with your peers for a group project, so be kind and respectful towards them.
Greet them whenever you enter the classroom. Try making some small talk to lighten the mood. For example, you could say something like, “How about that game this past weekend?” If a teacher tells you that you’re wrong about something, don’t talk back or argue.
Respect your teacher’s policies regarding electronic devices. Tell your teacher if you plan to record their lecture for note-taking purposes so they’re aware of why you have your phone or recording device out.
You don’t have to wear a suit and tie, but a clean collared shirt or a casual dress shows that didn’t just roll out of bed to make it to class. Wash your hair and wear deodorant. Nobody wants a smelly person in their class!
Thank them in private by waiting after class or visiting their office hours so they know that it’s genuine. If you exchange email correspondence with your teacher, always send a thank you email whenever they respond or reply to a message that you send them.
You can also give them a gift on their birthday or the last day of school. Give a gift that is specific to the teacher to show them that you care about their interests. For example, if they’re a fan of the Star Wars films, give them a movie poster that they can display in the classroom.
Use office hours to discuss appropriate subjects like schoolwork or additional materials you can study.
Ask them to leave the letter undated and addressed to “To Whom It May Concern” if you don’t know when you’ll need to use it. If you have a counselor or a potential employer that you need to provide a letter of recommendation, ask your teacher to date and address the letter to them.