3 answers
Nicole
Student
Johnson City, Tennessee
1
Question
Updated
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What have you learned about teaching that you wish you knew before you began and would have helped you tremendously?
My goal is to teach middle and high school students.
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3 answers
Wong Loke Yuen
Head of Programme cum Senior Lecturer
645
Answers
Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Updated
Wong’s Answer
Hi Nicole. Having worked as a teacher, one of the biggest things I've learned is that teaching is as much about understanding students as it is about the subject you're teaching. Before I began, I thought being knowledgeable in my subject would be enough to be a good teacher. I quickly realized that knowing the material is only one part of the job. Understanding how students learn, what motivates them, and how to connect lessons to their experiences is just as important.
Another lesson I wish I had known is how important classroom management really is. Planning engaging lessons is essential, but creating a positive, structured environment is what allows students to actually learn. I learned that consistency, clear expectations, and mutual respect make a huge difference.
I've also learned that flexibility and patience are key. No lesson ever goes exactly as planned, and students' needs change constantly. Being willing to adapt and respond to challenges creatively can make the difference between a good day and a frustrating one. Also, seeking feedback from colleagues and being open to trying new approaches is incredibly helpful.
Another lesson I wish I had known is how important classroom management really is. Planning engaging lessons is essential, but creating a positive, structured environment is what allows students to actually learn. I learned that consistency, clear expectations, and mutual respect make a huge difference.
I've also learned that flexibility and patience are key. No lesson ever goes exactly as planned, and students' needs change constantly. Being willing to adapt and respond to challenges creatively can make the difference between a good day and a frustrating one. Also, seeking feedback from colleagues and being open to trying new approaches is incredibly helpful.
This is incredibly insightful, thank you so much!
Nicole
You are very welcome
Wong Loke Yuen
Ivuelekwa Michael
Script writer
7
Answers
Owerri, Imo, Nigeria
Updated
Ivuelekwa’s Answer
Teachers are like genies , see yourself from the eyes not the students, you'll be able to invent, one thing a teacher regret is not furthering research _
Taryn N.
SAHM, Educator, Communication Professional
3
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Taryn’s Answer
Hi, Nicole!
Although I am not a teacher leading my own classroom, I worked as a Substitute Teacher in one of the largest school districts in the US. I will offer advice based on my experiences subbing for middle and high school students in vastly different neighborhoods across Chicago.
Keep in mind that each school, each grade, each classroom, and each student have unique needs. Teaching is not a “one-size-fits-all” product; it is an ever-evolving process that requires adaptability and empathy for students’ different learning styles. However, one tool in particular helped me manage classrooms full of sassy, distracted middle/high school students: HUMOR.
Some people might not consider humor an essential skill for teaching, but I strongly argue otherwise, especially when it comes to dealing with older students who are more likely to challenge you with bad attitudes. When used appropriately, humor can help students maintain positive attitudes and stay engaged in lessons. Students respected me more, and listened more during important lessons, when I balanced my teaching tone with a dash of good humor.
“Class clowns” can be some of the most difficult students to teach, no matter how smart they are. If they are always distracted, and distracting other students, your job will be miserable. If you take some of the spotlight away from the “class clown” by having a healthy dose of silliness in your instruction, then YOU will draw students’ attention to your lessons.
For example, I subbed for an 8th grade class in which a few students were making fart jokes when they were supposed to be completing a worksheet. I browsed the room checking on student progress, and when I passed their table I said, “Too smelly over here to focus on the assignment, huh? Who let it rip?” They laughed and responded, “RESPECT.” Then they actually redirected their attention to the assignment! A quip like that can go a long way because the distracted students see you as someone who can “speak their language” of humor, while you also assert authority as their teacher.
With humor in the classroom, use moderation and appropriate delivery— but when used successfully, it can save you and your students a LOT of stress!
I wish you all the best in your career!
Although I am not a teacher leading my own classroom, I worked as a Substitute Teacher in one of the largest school districts in the US. I will offer advice based on my experiences subbing for middle and high school students in vastly different neighborhoods across Chicago.
Keep in mind that each school, each grade, each classroom, and each student have unique needs. Teaching is not a “one-size-fits-all” product; it is an ever-evolving process that requires adaptability and empathy for students’ different learning styles. However, one tool in particular helped me manage classrooms full of sassy, distracted middle/high school students: HUMOR.
Some people might not consider humor an essential skill for teaching, but I strongly argue otherwise, especially when it comes to dealing with older students who are more likely to challenge you with bad attitudes. When used appropriately, humor can help students maintain positive attitudes and stay engaged in lessons. Students respected me more, and listened more during important lessons, when I balanced my teaching tone with a dash of good humor.
“Class clowns” can be some of the most difficult students to teach, no matter how smart they are. If they are always distracted, and distracting other students, your job will be miserable. If you take some of the spotlight away from the “class clown” by having a healthy dose of silliness in your instruction, then YOU will draw students’ attention to your lessons.
For example, I subbed for an 8th grade class in which a few students were making fart jokes when they were supposed to be completing a worksheet. I browsed the room checking on student progress, and when I passed their table I said, “Too smelly over here to focus on the assignment, huh? Who let it rip?” They laughed and responded, “RESPECT.” Then they actually redirected their attention to the assignment! A quip like that can go a long way because the distracted students see you as someone who can “speak their language” of humor, while you also assert authority as their teacher.
With humor in the classroom, use moderation and appropriate delivery— but when used successfully, it can save you and your students a LOT of stress!
I wish you all the best in your career!