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The Most Important Qualities That Make a Good Teacher

July 30, 2023

Teachers significantly impact the lives of their learners. They challenge their students to confidently think outside the box and counter new challenges. 

A good teacher will also support their learners when they take in new challenges and fail. They build their confidence to try again, inspire creativity, and encourage exploration and competition. 

Teaching is not a job but a calling. It is, therefore, crucial to acquire and perfect the required skills to efficiently inspire and grow students in their classrooms. 

Good teachers model behaviors of patience, empathy, communication, and understanding. Qualities that they can help grow in their learners. 

In this article, we discuss ten qualities of good teachers that should serve as motivation if you hope to impact the lives of your learners positively. 

The Value of a Teacher’s Role

A teacher’s role is essential not only in the education system but also later on in the lives of their students. 

You can make a difference in your student’s life by influencing everything, from educational goals to after-school success. 

Good teachers help their students reach more success, understand themselves better, and make well-thought decisions that will help them make the right choices to propel them to greater heights in life. 

To be good at your job as a teacher, you must love it. Passion is infectious; your students will feel passionate about the subject if you are passionate about it. 

Also, you can cultivate self-esteem, self-confidence, and self-worth in your learners in your daily interactions. 

Your interactions with your students also guide them into laying the foundation for meaningful relationships, understanding their feelings, and navigating challenging situations. 

10 Qualities of a Good Teacher

Outstanding teachers have certain qualities that make them rise above the rest of their student’s lives. Such teachers have a way of remaining in our memories no matter how far removed from our school years. 

Studies from the Economic Policy Institute show that good teachers contribute more to student achievement than learning facilities and school leadership. 

Here are our top ten qualities that make a good teacher:

1. Great communicators

When you possess excellent communication skills, you will know how to teach your subject in a learner-friendly and engaging way. 

This will, in turn, improve their understanding and achievement as it will bring you closer to them and help them present any concerns they may have regarding any learned content. 

For instance, a finance class will be easier to understand if the teacher uses everyday examples with which the students are familiar. 

2. Experts in their field

Your students will be motivated to learn if you are an expert in your field. If you love your teaching area, you will show that expertise in the classroom. 

Once you have mastered the content in your subject area, you can use different angles to explain the subject matter; hence be very resourceful when teaching. 

For instance, a math teacher can use the rows and columns in the class to enhance understanding of matrices. 

3. Collaboration

Collaboration in teaching creates a growth-based learning environment that increases student learning processes.

You should work closely with other teachers and your students if you aim for great results. 

Collaborating with other teachers helps you learn from each other, allowing you to brainstorm new ideas. This is significant in improving learner outcomes. 

A good teacher is also interested in learning from parents about their students. This equips you with an understanding of how to help your students better.

Empathy is how you understand your learner’s emotional, social, and intellectual situations. A good teacher can respond empathetically to a learner’s admirable and ugly emotions without losing focus on student learning. 

For instance, if your best student failed a test. Your first instinct might be to reprimand them and for an explanation for their poor performance. On the other hand, consider putting yourself in their situation, imagine how they are feeling, and empathize with them. 

Seek to understand how they feel about the dismal performance, what they think they did wrong, and then suggest ways to improve the result. Assure them that they have a chance to turn things around. 

When your learners feel physically, mentally, and emotionally safe, they will engage better in your subject as they feel loved and understood. 

You can grow your empathetic touch by reading books on such, taking courses on empathy, and attending seminars that build on this. 

5. Loving challenges

A great teacher loves challenges. A classroom environment is full of varied challenges; therefore, embracing them is a sure way to manage them. 

Once you love your challenges, you will teach your learners more effectively. This is because a teacher who loves challenges will grow to challenge students. Students love challenges, provided they are presented in a kind spirit. 

You can draw your students to love challenges by asking thought-provoking questions that get learners to think about sequencing and predictions. 

Challenging them will push them to work harder, improve, and achieve beyond their imagination. 

6. Creativity

Although not all subject areas promote creativity, they can all be taught creatively. 

For instance, a biology teacher teaching about different kinds of plants would take students to the natural habitat to exploit the topic practically. Also, a literature teacher would more creatively use film to enhance the mental correlation of a play the learners are reading as a literary text. 

A science teacher would use real solutions more creatively when teaching learners to test for bases and acids. Learners always appreciate the extra mile. 

When you creatively motivate your learners, they are motivated to do this in education and their lives after school. 

7. Constant growth 

Teachers need a growth mindset that prepares them for the classroom environment. Continuous learning will equip you with invaluable knowledge to progressively inspire your students. The growth mindset is essential because it will enable you to collaborate with your learners with the understanding that they can learn it to a higher level. 

A view that continuous growth is essential will create a love of learning and resilience in just one area. It empowers your learners to believe they can develop their abilities with brains and talents as starting points. 

The need for growth will motivate you to focus on creativity and intelligence, the two factors that result in success in both your academic and professional lives. 

8. Patience

When managing learners, your patience is constantly tested. You will also deal with learners, parents, and colleagues with differing perspectives, backgrounds, and characters. This requires patience. 

For instance, with your learners and their parents, you must be patient in repeatedly dealing with the same questions and issues.

Also, some of your learners will have difficulties understanding various concepts; it’s essential that you keep going but should continuously try out new ways of helping them succeed. 

9. Adaptability

Your environment as a teacher is constantly evolving. This demands that you continually adapt to the constant changes and adjust your teaching methods to suit the age and intellect of your learners. 

Also, with the continuously changing educational frameworks, being able to adopt those changes makes you a good teacher. 

Adaptability is also one of the essential skills that you will require if you are educating learners of varying grade levels or those with different learning styles. 

10. Respect

Many educators imply respect, but few understand how to use it in the classroom. 

As a good teacher, you must be mindful of any imbalance in respect and ensure that your students feel respected and heard. 

In stories from American Teacher Week , Maggie remembers her seventh-grade language teacher for the respect she fostered and reflected on her students. The feeling that her teacher valued and respected each of them taught her a valuable lesson about the significance of fostering the respect you demand.

Desired Classroom Skills

Besides the teaching and communication skills you should possess as a good teacher, excellent class management skills are critical.  

Some of the desired class management skills include:

• Setting high but achievable expectations for your students – You can do this by teaching them about growth mindsets. They should believe that success is within their control. Reinforce in them daily that they can succeed if they put in the effort. 
• Good planning skills – With good planning skills, you will help students identify their goals and guide them in deciding what their priority is. Teach them how to plan their learning by breaking their tasks into steps to make them more manageable. Teaching learners how to plan will also eliminate uncertainty in the mind, which in most learners results in procrastination. 
• Creating a sense of community- A sense of community will create a social connection and a sense of belonging among your learners. You can establish this community within your students by consistently holding class meetings every morning to focus on building social and emotional skills and establishing relationships among them. 

Common Weaknesses of Teachers

Teachers, even the most experienced, are helpful with some weaknesses. Every teacher would like to see themselves as being perfect, but admitting that we are all flawed in different ways is the first step to becoming better teachers tomorrow. 

Here are some common weaknesses in teachers: 

Perfectionism

Making mistakes is a normal part of human life. Perfectionism is a fear-based pattern whose short-term rewards are getting the job done and exceeding expectations. Its long-term effects, however, include burnout, compromised quality of work, and missed deadlines. 

Being afraid to make mistakes primes us for burnout and overwhelms us with fear, factors that distort our functioning as teachers. 

Dealing with others as a perfectionist is challenging since you will always want them to do things your way, allowing little room for the ideas and imperfections of others. 

Perfectionism also prevents you from taking constructive criticism from colleagues who may want to share relevant observations on your interaction. 

Though no one is perfect, some teachers seem to have it together, and this may be the basis for our comparison. Comparison can hinder your success as a teacher if you are constantly comparing yourself with colleagues you view as perfect. 

Learning helpful hints and new ideas from teachers with the strengths we would like to possess would help you overcome comparison.

For instance, if a colleague is better at relating with learners and they look up to her more for guidance, instead of getting all jealous and bitter at her, seek to know what she does differently to get the students to open up to her. 

Spontaneous

If you are a spontaneous teacher, you act without planning but will rely on previous experience teaching diverse classes and using different approaches to teaching. 

Spontaneity in learning is not all bad, as it helps adjust the power imbalances in a typical classroom. Spontaneous teaching, however, can have some adverse effects on learning. This can result in a lack of structure to your lesson and poor lesson organization. It may also limit your degree of learner assessment of learner progress and achievement. 

To avoid the adverse effects of spontaneity, find a balance between flexibility and structure in the lesson. Consider the individual learner’s needs and learning abilities when deciding on the instructional method. 

Becoming a Good Teacher

A chosen path can guide you into becoming a better teacher. Many specialties are available, so knowing what grade you want to teach and what subject area you are passionate about is essential. 

Here are some steps to take toward becoming a good teacher. 

Bachelor’s Degree 

A bachelor’s degree is crucial to becoming a good teacher. Though most states will require a bachelor’s degree in education, alternative routes to licensure are also available. 

 It will allow you to learn essential skills that will help you become a better teacher. Such include:

• Cognitive skills : A degree program grows your ability to recall, integrate, and analyze information. You will be able to foster critical and creative thinking skills that guide fluency, originality, flexibility, and adaptability in developing and adjusting to learner programs. 
• Communication skills: Acquiring communication skills enables you to interact and collaborate effectively with your learners in delivering and assessing knowledge acquisition. Efficient communication is necessary when also engaging with students’ families and colleagues. 
• Research skills: The skills to initiate and complete data collection concerning learner performance and curricula are essential in effective instruction. A bachelor’s degree program will guide you into effectively demonstrating, considering consequences, information presentation, and record keeping. 
• Social skills: A good teacher is sensitive to ethical and integral processes of establishing functional relationships with all the school community members. The program will develop compassion, empathy, interpersonal skills, and internal motivation, skills you will require to impact your learners and effectively relate with your colleagues positively. 

Here is a list of some bachelor’s degrees that would guide you into initial certification as a teacher:

• Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education
• Bachelor of Special Ed. and Elementary Education
• Bachelor of Special Education (mild to moderate)
• Bachelor of Science in Mathematics Education (middle grades)
• Bachelor of Science in Science Education (Secondary Biological Science)
• Bachelor of Arts in Music Education
• Bachelor of Science in STEM Education

Master’s Degree

Besides attaining a bachelor’s degree, aspiring teachers should also think about acquiring a master’s degree. A master’s degree will upgrade your knowledge and help you learn more about your subject area. You will also acquire more effective ways of curriculum instruction. 

Teaching Certification

To get hired after completing your degree program, getting certified to teach in the state where you are interested in teaching is essential. 

Getting certified gives you credibility as a teacher and is one of the states’ quality measures for hiring teachers. 

Most states will therefore require teachers to have certificates to teach. 

Teachers are crucial in changing lives, inspiring dreams, and pushing individuals to realize their potential. Teachers educate the next generation, promoting positive attitudes that shape society. 

Middle School Teacher Salary in Texas in 2023

July 30, 2023 by bryan

Texas Teachers Certification Areas

Texas teachers currently offers 50+ certification areas:.

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The Heart of Teaching: What It Means to Be a Great Teacher

Kindness, empathy, and a focus on building community are among the qualities of a great teacher.

What does it mean to be a great teacher? Of course credentials, knowledge, critical thinking, and all other faculties of intelligence are important. However, a great teacher should be much more than credentials, experience, and intelligence.

What lies in the heart of a great teacher?

You are kind:  A great teacher shows kindness to students, colleagues, parents, and those around her or him. My favorite saying is “kindness makes the world go around.” It truly changes the environment in the classroom and school. Being a kind teacher helps students feel welcomed, cared for, and loved.

You are compassionate:  Teaching is a very humanistic profession, and compassion is the utmost feeling of understanding and showing others you are concerned about them. A compassionate teacher models that characteristic to the students with her or his actions, and as a result students will be more open to understanding the world around them.

You are empathetic:  Empathy is an important trait to have and to try to develop in ourselves and our students. Being able to put yourself in someone’s shoes and see things from their perspective can have a powerful impact on our decisions and actions.

You are positive:  Being a positive person is not an easy task. Being a positive teacher is even harder when we’re always met with problems with very limited solutions. However, staying positive when it’s tough can have a tremendous positive impact on the students and everyone around us. Looking on the bright side always seems to help make things better.

You are a builder:  A great teacher bridges gaps and builds relationships, friendships, and a community. Teachers always look to make things better and improve things in and outside of the classroom. Building a community is something a great teacher seeks to do in the classroom and extends that to the entire school and its community.

You inspire:  Everyone looks at a great teacher and wants to be a better teacher, a better student, and even a better person. A great teacher uncovers hidden treasures, possibilities, and magic right before everyone’s eyes.

This piece was originally submitted to our community forums by a reader. Due to audience interest, we’ve preserved it. The opinions expressed here are the writer’s own.

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Qualities of a Good Teacher: The 14 Qualities That Top Our List

When you think back on your own education, there’s probably a teacher who stands out as an exceptional source of encouragement and inspiration. Maybe it was a college professor who inspired you to change your career field — or, maybe it was a kindergarten teacher whose simple acts of kindness made a positive difference in your childhood. But no matter what grade you were in or what subject you were studying, chances are your favorite teacher possessed many of the skills and characteristics that are featured on this list, which breaks down the qualities of a good teacher in detail.

In This Article:

What makes a good teacher, the top 14 qualities that make a good teacher, a good teacher starts with a solid education, keeping your teaching skills fresh with professional development, 15 soft and hard skills important for teachers to develop, the journey to becoming a good teacher.

Read on as we explore the top character traits and teaching skills that educators need in 2032 and beyond. We’ve also included an overview of the credentials, degrees, and qualifications that are required to become a teacher, both in California and out of state. Whether it’s a skill you need to brush up on, a credential you need to earn, or maybe even a character trait you want to work on developing, this guide offers dozens of ideas for areas where you can start improving as an educator — and start improving your resume at the same time.

Whether they’re teaching advanced calculus or how to count to 10, effective teachers share certain universal traits in common. For example, all great educators have the ability to listen actively — not only to their students, but also to their colleagues, school administrators, and students’ family members. We’ll talk more about active listening and why it matters below, along with several other traits that teachers should try to exemplify.

According to Robert Lee, Ed.D., Dean of the Sanford College of Education , “A good teacher possesses qualities such as strong communication skills, empathy, and a passion for lifelong learning. These attributes not only foster a positive and engaging classroom environment but also enhance student success and inspire a love of learning. Good teachers also possess a deep understanding of their subject matter and can take that knowledge and make it culturally relevant for students as they develop engaging lessons. Good teachers inspire and motivate students to reach their full potential while creating an inclusive learning environment where each student is seen, valued, cared for, and respected.”

While some are less tangible than others — and potentially, more challenging to cultivate — all of them are equally worthwhile for teachers to actively develop and practice. Read on as we break down more than a dozen of the most important traits for educators, including:

• Active listening
• Adaptability
• Collaboration
• Focus on growth
• Lifelong learning
• Preparedness

You don’t need to have a specific personality type to be an inspiring and effective teacher. However, there are some useful traits you should work on developing or strengthening if your goal is to be a more engaging and successful educator.

1. Adaptability

Adaptability is a must for teachers, who need to continuously evaluate what’s working for their students — and even more importantly, what isn’t working. Being adaptable and flexible allows you to flow between different theories of learning and modes of teaching — something we’ll discuss momentarily — without becoming immobilized by stress or indecision.

Empathy is the ability to understand what another person is feeling or experiencing — put simply, putting yourself in another person’s shoes. As a teacher, it’s vital to practice empathy instead of making assumptions — for instance, making efforts to understand and address the root issue that’s causing a student to fall behind their peers, perform more poorly than they used to, or lash out in class.

3. Patience

Patience is important both to possess and to model for your students — who, as we discussed in our post on theories of learning, may view you as a role model and emulate your behavior. Having a reserve of patience will make it easier for you to work through each student’s unique struggles and challenges, which may be difficult or slow-going to overcome.

4. Engagement

Students are perceptive from an extremely young age and can easily tell when teachers are bored by or apathetic toward their own material. If you want to generate engagement and enthusiasm in your class, it’s imperative to exemplify those traits yourself, showing your students an infectious passion for learning — and all the exciting discoveries and hobbies that it can unlock for them!

5. Active Listening

Active listening is vital if you want to effectively diagnose and help overcome students’ unique obstacles and challenges. Seek feedback, encourage honesty, provide ways for students to contact you easily, and be attentive whenever you listen, always trying to read between the lines and assess body language while you’re communicating. Learn more about how and why you should improve your active listening skills .

6. Lifelong Learning

The best educators aren’t just interested in teaching — they also have a passion for lifelong learning, which is reflected in their enthusiasm and engagement as instructors. Continued learning and professional development deliver invaluable insight, keeping professionals “sharp” and reminding teachers of the real-world challenges that their students may be facing — creating a pathway for greater empathy. Discover more about the importance of lifelong learning and how different theories of learning could help you teach — or understand — new information.

7. Free of Bias

As an educator, you’ll be responsible for teaching an extraordinarily wide range of students. To combat inequality and discrimination and ensure fairness, you need to assess your students’ needs in a way that is free from bias — something that requires you to continuously check in with your own judgments and assumptions about others.

8. Respectful Attitude

Even in classrooms of adult learners, there’s still an inherent imbalance of power that exists between students and teachers. It’s imperative for educators to be mindful of this imbalance and ensure that students feel respected and heard for the people they are and what they contribute to the classroom.

9. Creativity

Creativity goes hand in hand with adaptability — another key trait we explored on this list. Whether you teach first graders or doctoral students, you’ll need the ability to innovate, think outside the box, and find novel solutions to challenges, which will empower you to meet a wider range of students’ needs. Being creative as an educator will also help you to foster creativity in your students — an essential skill they’ll need for countless career paths.

10. Collaborative

From parent-teacher conferences and department meetings to teaching dozens or hundreds of students every day, education is an intensely collaborative field by nature, involving a constant interplay between students, teachers, administrators, and family members. If your goal is to become an educator or transition into an educational leadership position, you’ll need strong collaborative skills to ensure you can work well with others consistently.

11. Preparation

In line with being flexible and adaptable, it’s important to be prepared for a wide range of scenarios and challenges in the classroom. You can increase your overall level of preparedness as an educator by learning about your students’ strengths and challenges, and ensuring that you consider how each of your students could be affected by your lesson plans.

12. Promote a Growth Mindset

In 2006, psychologist Carol Dweck introduced the concept of “growth mindsets” vs. “fixed mindsets” in her book Mindset: The Psychology of Success. According to Dweck, individuals with a fixed mindset perceive assets like intelligence as being determined early in life, which can cause obstacles or challenges to seem insurmountable or overwhelming. In contrast to a fixed mindset, individuals who have a growth mindset believe that traits like intelligence and creativity can be developed with practice.

13. Meet Students Where They Are

Your students will come to you from different backgrounds, skill sets, and challenges — and you need to be ready to meet them, whichever point they’ve reached in their learning. That means having the ability to accommodate students who learn at different paces, using different styles and methods, within the same classroom or group. This is another area where traits like adaptability, empathy, and patience come into play for educators.

14. Cross-Discipline Teaching

Drawing on multiple subjects and disciplines shows students how businesses operate — and how problem-solving works — in the real world, grounding their learning in practical real-life scenarios.

If you don’t possess all of these traits already, don’t panic — just be mindful that there may be some areas where you could benefit from a little practice. Whether your goal is to tune up weak skills, refine strong ones, or develop new abilities, a degree or credential program provides the perfect opportunity to acquire the qualifications and experience you need to go further in your chosen career path.

Here are just a few of the teaching credentials or degrees that graduate and undergraduate students can pursue at National University. Each option combines rigorous coursework and research with an academic seminar or field experience component, where the student has the opportunity to demonstrate their mastery of — and ability to apply — the subject material they’ve covered throughout the program.

Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education (BAECE)

The Bachelor of Arts degree in Early Childhood Education at National University is an NCATE-accredited degree program that may be completed online or on-campus. Coursework covers topics such as Early Cognition; Early Language and Literacy; Observing, Assessing, and Planning; Children with Special Needs; Designing Emergent Curriculum; and Nature, Numbers, and Technology. For additional details about the program, explore the BAECE program page or contact our admissions office to request more information.

Master of Arts in Education (MAE)

The Master of Arts in Education , or MAE, is an NCATE-accredited program with the option to conveniently complete coursework online. The MAE is designed for students who want to acquire field experience, conduct original research, and build on their undergraduate degree with a rigorous, high-level study of the historical, philosophical, psychological, and social foundations of today’s education industry. Program coursework includes topics such as Early Childhood Education Learning and Development; Foundations of Adult Learners; Community Development in Higher Education; Media Rich Instruction; Identity, Inclusion, and Equity; and Applied Critical Thinking. To learn more about the online or on-campus MAE program at National University, get in touch with our enrollment counselors today.

Inspired Teaching and Learning with a Preliminary Teaching Credential

National University offers both Single Subject and Multiple Subject Teaching Credentials , along with a wide variety of additional teaching credentials to help you reach your goals. The credential you need depends on the classes or grade levels you intend to teach and in what state, along with other factors. For example, according to the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC), you’ll need a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential to become an elementary school teacher, whereas anyone who “want[s] to teach in high school in California must earn a Single Subject Teaching Credential.” Finally, “Individuals who want to teach special education students in California must earn an Education Specialist Instruction Credential,” per CTC guidelines.

According to the online education resource Teaching-Certificate , “Although the…California Commission on Teacher Credentialing used to require 150 hours of professional growth to renew a clear credential, clear credentials may now be renewed without verifying any professional or continuing education requirements.” However, that doesn’t mean educators should overlook opportunities for continued learning. While no longer a CTC requirement, continuing education has several benefits for teachers and school administrators, like increasing your marketability, providing you with professional networking opportunities, and creating a path to learn and practice new skills — while keeping your old ones up-to-date.

Before we look at these skills in closer detail, it’s important to point out that the CTC requirements above are specific to California, and that the continuing education or professional development requirements for educators may differ in your state. For example, the state of Nevada requires educators to complete “15 hours each calendar year of professional development or the equivalent of in-service training.” Be sure to check with the credentialing organization in your state, like California’s Commission on Teaching Credentialing, to ensure you meet the criteria for maintaining and renewing your teaching license.

As an educator, you meet a new group of students every year — and every year, there are new developments around the science and psychology of learning. In short, students’ needs change over time, like the way that social media and mobile devices have become key learning tools among Gen Z students compared to previous generations. The student population is also becoming more diverse , not only in terms of race but also disability, along with international students and online students .

The bottom line for educators? In the face of a changing industry and student population, along with the growing importance of educational technology, teachers need to develop — and maintain — a wide range of skills to keep up. So what are the essential hard and soft skills of a teacher, and what sorts of credentials and qualifications does an educator need to obtain? Here are 15 examples, including seven hard skills and eight soft skills for teachers to master.

• Ability to practice varied teaching modes and methods
• Administrative skills
• Communication
• Classroom management skills
• Computer and technological skills
• Educational degrees and qualifications
• Emotional intelligence
• Leadership skills
• Knowledge of the curriculum
• Problem-solving skills
• Teaching certificates and credentials
• Time management skills
• Writing and grammar skills

8 Important Soft Skills for Teachers

Important soft skills for teachers include time management skills, leadership skills, having a strong work ethic, problem solving abilities, high emotional intelligence, and possessing the knowledge and adaptability needed to employ a variety of teaching modes and methods.

1. Communication — Verbal, nonverbal, and written communication are fundamental for any educator. Not only does clear communication enable you to learn about your students, how they learn, and what challenges or motivates them most — it also empowers you to dialogue with parents and families, share information with your colleagues and administrators more productively, and create a more inclusive environment for students from diverse backgrounds.

2. Time Management —You expect your students to complete their assignments on time — so it’s vital that you model the same skills. Effective time management, which you can read tips about here , will help you ensure that tasks like grading papers, composing quizzes, and meeting with students are completed in a timely fashion that aligns with your curriculum and lesson plan calendar.

3. Strong Work Ethic — Teachers can be expected to carry heavy workloads. It’s essential to possess a strong work ethic to help you manage the demands of the role.

4. Problem Solving — From unexpected technical issues to bullying and conflicts between students, teachers are frequently confronted with unplanned situations that need to be resolved so that learning can continue. You’ll need robust problem-solving skills to ensure that you’re prepared to address a wide range of impediments to learning.

5. Leadership — From the renowned scholar leading a master’s-level course, to the kindergarten teacher leading their class together in a singing exercise, teachers are leaders for their students. You’ll need strong leadership skills to keep your students organized, engaged, and on-task while demonstrating respectful attitudes toward their instructors and peers.

6. Variety of Teaching Methods — Teachers need the ability to employ a variety of teaching methods to meet students’ equally varied needs, ranging from teacher-directed (like lectures and worked examples) to student-directed (like collaborative and project-based learning). For example, it’s important to be familiar with traditional methods of learning vs. inquiry-based learning . You can learn more about teaching methods and how to implement them in our guide to theories of learning.

7. Variety of Teaching Modes — Educators should be familiar with — and develop teaching strategies that are adapted to — the various VARK “modalities of learning,” an acronym that refers to “Visual, Aural, Read/write, and Kinesthetic” modes of learning. You can read more about VARK modalities here .

8. Emotional Intelligence — Emotional intelligence is a broad term that describes a person’s ability to understand, analyze, and manage their own emotional responses. Emotional intelligence is critical for teachers, who need to maintain professionalism and demonstrate leadership even when placed under high-pressure, high-stress situations.

7 Important Hard Skills for Teachers

Examples of important hard skills for teachers to develop and hone include computer skills and technological competence, classroom management skills, administrative skills, writing and grammar skills, and thorough knowledge and understanding of the curriculum. Educators also need to obtain the appropriate certificates, credentials, degrees, and additional qualifications, which we’ll discuss briefly below.

1. Computer and Technology Skills — Computers and other technology play increasing roles in education, a topic we explored in our article on educational technology . Technological proficiency is vital for teachers in any subject, especially if you plan on teaching online or media-rich courses.

2. Classroom Management — Conveying information is only part of your job as an educator. You’re also responsible for managing your classroom and student behavior, particularly for educators who teach younger children. Classroom management skills are essential for maintaining an inclusive, safe, and welcoming environment that supports learning for all of your students.

3. Administrative Skills — Administrative skills include skills such as strategic thinking, strong organization and time management, and the ability to lead effectively while communicating clearly. These types of skills are useful for both school administrators and educators, with several (like time management) receiving their own places on this list!

4. Writing and Grammar Skills — It isn’t just English or creative writing teachers who need a firm grasp of grammar and spelling. You’ll need strong writing skills for routine tasks like emailing parents and administrators, correcting students’ assignments, sharing demonstrations on the board, and possibly even requesting grants or other funding.

5. Certificates and Credentials — In addition to earning your degree, you’ll also need to earn certain certificates and credentials depending on factors like where and what you’d like to teach. For example, to quote the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC), “Individuals who want to teach in high school in California must earn a Single Subject Teaching Credential .” For more detailed information on that subject, we recommend exploring our overview of multiple and single subject teacher education credentials available at National University.

6. Qualifications and Degrees — Most teaching positions require a minimum of a bachelor’s degree, with certain types of teaching positions or academic employers requiring a master’s or even doctoral degree. National University offers a range of accredited online and on-campus degree programs in education to help prepare you for a career in teaching or school administration, like preparing you for professional exam requirements. Learn more about the process of becoming a teacher, or explore the state’s requirements for becoming a teacher in California.

7. Curricular Knowledge — It’s essential to have extensive and in-depth knowledge of your curriculum so that you can lead meaningful discussions and help your students connect larger ideas together. For example, you’ll need to be fluent in any foreign language that you intend to teach.

These are just a few of the many examples of good teacher qualities and skills to possess — no matter what subject you teach or at what grade level. Discover more about what it takes to become an educator by applying to a credential or degree program at National University today.

Teaching begins with learning. Do both at the same time by earning your teaching degree or credential from National University. Through the Sanford College of Education, we offer a wide range of teacher credentials, associate’s degree programs, bachelor’s degree programs, and master’s degree programs — all with regional accreditation, financial aid options for students, and the ability to complete coursework partially or 100% online.

Follow your passion while making an impact on young (or not-so-young) minds. Talk to our admissions counselors about applying to National University and enrolling in our BAECE, MAE, or other teaching credentials and degree programs.

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The 10 Most Important Qualities of a Good Teacher, According to Real Educators

This is what it takes to succeed in this challenging career.

It’s a standard teacher interview question : “What do you think is the most important quality of a good teacher?” While everyone has a different answer, there are some that come up more often than others. We asked a group of experienced educators and administrators to share their thoughts on the key qualities of a good teacher. Here’s what they had to say.

1. Patience

This was far and away the most commonly mentioned characteristic by educators in our survey. “Patience can be used in virtually every situation,” says high school ELA teacher Ann Cox. “If a teacher is able to remain calm, consider others’ point of view, and think through scenarios, they will be able to navigate just about anything that comes their way.”

She continues: “Patience helps teachers not to react in the moment when students are off task, disrespectful, etc. It’s also helpful when dealing with angry parents so you don’t say or do something you might regret later. And patience is definitely needed when sitting through meetings and professional development sessions!”

For ELA teacher Kenly CG, patience means “paying attention to each student’s needs and showing that you care about your students’ learning.” UK special school teacher Sarah Brown also advises “remaining calm, listening and observing students’ needs, repeating instructions, and modelling again when necessary.”

Learn more: 7 Ways To Cultivate Patience at Calm

2. Empathy and Compassion

These two traits were a close second behind patience when we asked about the qualities of a good teacher. “They have to know you care before they can learn from you,” explains middle school teacher Samantha Wheeler. As a special ed teacher from New York notes: “You have to teach the child before you can teach the curriculum.”

“Empathy is a constant exercise in stepping outside of yourself and your perspective to see the children you teach for who they are,” notes Indiana preschool teacher Maile C. Quinton. “Contact talks. Get down on the same level as a child, listen to what they say, and emphasize their shared feelings by validating them. Don’t try to silver lining everything—you can validate a situation, a moment, an emotion without condoning a behavior or a problem. Empathy isn’t sympathy.”

Learn more: Cultivating Empathy at American Psychological Association

3. Flexibility and Adaptability

Being open-minded to change is critical in this field. So many of the educators we surveyed agree with this North Carolina ESL teacher: “There is nothing constant in teaching. Good teachers have to be able to adapt to the changing needs of students, to new administrators, new curricula, new colleagues, and new technology.”

“With so many different needs from students and parents, teachers need to be flexible to accommodate and meet students where they are at,” says elementary school counselor Lisa K, while high school English teacher Nicole P. adds, “There are often times where you need to think on your feet, so being flexible is important to go with the flow in different situations.” ADVERTISEMENT

Elementary special ed teacher Brianna Vuori sums it up like this: “We can only begin to predict what the future will hold and with that what we need to prepare students for, so adaptability is critical to being able to survive and thrive in this ever-changing profession.”

Learn more: Teachers, To Succeed, It’s Important To Be Flexible at EdWeek

Teaching can be a tough gig, and you’ll need to be dedicated and passionate in order to thrive. “Passion is what drives us forward and what sees us through rough times,” emphasizes ELS department head Katerina T. “It is the driving force behind every lesson plan or decision we make and what lies at the foundation of life-changing relationships with our students.”

“Teachers that have passion will always find a way to meet the demands of the job,” says Florida teacher Jamie Cabaniss. “Teachers can lean on their passions when feeling frustrated and burnt out. Passions are what reignite us to get back in the classroom to teach our hearts out.”

Preschool teacher Christina H. couldn’t agree more. “You have to have a love and passion for what you are doing,” she declares. “Teaching isn’t just ‘teaching.’ It is also being a second mom (or dad), a counselor, a referee, a nurse, and so much more. To wear these many hats, you need to love what you are doing. You also need to love your students to help them succeed. Loving them on their best and worst days is what will make you successful.”

Learn more: 5 Ways Educators Can Grow and Sustain a Passion for Teaching at NSHSS

5. Kindness

Over and over again, educators emphasized kindness as one of the most important qualities of a good teacher. “We are in the business of teaching human beings. We must teach them to be good people,” stresses Adam Peterson, Illinois music teacher and tutor.

Tina Jones agrees: “Teachers need to be kind, caring, compassionate and understanding. In our world today, with kids getting so much information and misinformation via social media, children need examples of those qualities more than ever.”

Learn more: The Case for Professional Kindness in Teaching at Teacher magazine

6. Collaboration

“Good teachers need to be able to give ideas, ask for help, share, and communicate with coworkers and families,” advises one Washington second grade teacher. “Be able to take suggestions, offer help, and not take things personally.”

Teachers regularly have to work collaboratively, and not just with their fellow colleagues and administrators. Developing strong, collaborative relationships with parents and families is vital. To succeed in this field, you need to learn to work well as part of a team.

Learn more: The Importance of Teacher Collaboration at American University School of Education

7. Professionalism

It probably feels like professionalism should be a given in any job, but it’s one of the most important qualities of a good teacher because you need to gain and maintain the respect of students, families, and administration. “Some days are going to be frustrating, discouraging, and stressful,” warns an Ohio 7th grade science teacher, “but you need to remain professional by staying calm and encouraging and being a good mentor for your students.”

Learn more: The Five P’s of Professionalism in Teaching at Grand Canyon University

8. Sense of Humor

There’s no doubt about it, teachers do best when they have a sense of humor. “Laughing at yourself is a great relief, and laughing with children builds trust with them,” says Maile C. Quinton. Find ways to bring humor into your classroom, and you’ll find that students relax and learn a little more easily. (Plus, it’s much easier to deal with the small daily annoyances of teaching when you learn to laugh them off!)

Learn more: Engaging Students With Humor at Association for Psychological Science

9. Open-Mindedness

“Be open to learning from more (and even less) experienced teachers, and open to trying out new teaching and classroom management methods,” recommends middle school ELA teacher Abigail Perry.

“We are building relationships with a diverse student population,” notes Cheryl Rizzo, a middle school ELA teacher. “This can be a source of stress or create divide. However, with an open mind, it can create new opportunities or a chance to grow. Teachers are open-minded when they allow students to have a voice and take an active part in their education.”

Part of being open-minded means demonstrating a willingness to grow and a dedication to growth mindset. According to a literacy coach from North Carolina: “This job requires constant reflection, learning, and growth.”

Learn more: How To Be Open-Minded and Why It Matters at Very Well Mind

10. Resilience

Marilyn Weber, a retired principal from Massachusetts, names this as the quality she looked for in a good teacher. “In order to navigate the world of education with all its related constituencies and responsibilities, an educator needs to be knowledgeable, flexible, an impeccable communicator, and should be able to withstand all the highs and lows of what comes their way and needs to be accomplished,” she states. She added that educators must be able to “do so without allowing any of that to shake their confidence and resolve in order to do what’s best for their students.”

That’s a tall order! Fortunately, Andrea Perry, a certified coach for educator well-being, has some advice. “Develop emotional intelligence. It’s critical for keeping our calm and being proactive, not reactive. This supports the teacher not only in serving their students well but also helps them remain joyfully in the profession as well.”

Learn more: How To Be Resilient at Work at Positive Psychology

More Qualities of a Good Teacher To Consider

These qualities of a good teacher didn’t make the top 10, but they’re definitely worthwhile attributes for every educator to cultivate:

• Inclusive mindset: “There is such a huge stigma against disabilities and it is often hushed away, which creates shame. All children are general education first and receive special education services second. Build a classroom community with respect by explaining differences to students and celebrating everyone’s strengths. True inclusivity helps all students grow, not just the students in a special education classroom. True inclusivity should help you as a teacher grow.” —Katie M., Functional Life Skills Teacher
• Love for all children: “A good teacher must truly like kids, even the naughty ones. Too often teachers only seem to like the ‘good’ kids or the ones from ‘good’ families. They attribute the student’s behavior to something personal or bad about them. Instead, those are the kids in whom we need to diligently look for the good.” —Kathryn Roe, retired educator and administrator
• Love of learning
• Problem-solving skills
• Hopefulness
• Imagination
• Reliability
• Knowledge of content and pedagogy
• High expectations

What do you feel are the most important qualities of a good teacher? Come share your thoughts in the We Are Teachers HELPLINE group on Facebook .

Plus, the complete guide to becoming a teacher, from choosing a college to landing a job ..

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What Makes a Good Teacher? 15 Qualities You Should Have

Think back to the best teacher you ever had. What qualities did they embody? What skills did you observe?

Teaching any age or skill level can be one of the most challenging yet rewarding professions. It’s no secret that more and more is being asked of teachers, especially in a post-pandemic era, from serving as IT troubleshooters and mentors to mental health advocates.

So what makes a good teacher in 2023? Beyond passing your teacher certification exam , what sets good teachers apart comes down to essential skills. While many different teaching styles and skill sets can make a good educator, a few core qualities of a good teacher are undoubtedly required.

Here, we’ll explore effective teacher characteristics, the hard and soft skills that educators should have, and how you can hone your teaching style. Whether you have decades of experience or you’re a first-year teacher , discover how to be the educator your students remember for years to come.

From rowdy students to administrators with opposing views, you’re bound to have your patience tested a time or two as a teacher. However, patience is one of the most important characteristics a teacher should have as it’s a stepping stone to many other qualities that make a good educator.

To practice patience with your students, try these tips:  

• Get in a positive mindset and leave personal issues outside of the classroom
• Slow down and be responsive, not reactive
• Try to practice calming techniques , like counting to 10, in difficult situations

2. Adaptable

One thing will remain consistent throughout your teaching career: Every day will be different. Whether it’s in-classroom technology or state standards, the education field is constantly evolving. Teachers need to adapt to these changes and adjust their teaching methods and lessons accordingly.

When practicing adaptability in the classroom, you should:

• Be open-minded
• Be aware of different learning styles
• Hone your problem-solving skills and ability to think on your feet

3. Respectful

Take a minute to remember back in grade school when your teacher ingrained the golden rule in your brain — treat others the way you want to be treated. So while it’s not unrealistic for you to expect your students to be respectful, it’s also important for you to reciprocate that respect.

Here are a few ways you can show respect to your students:

• Provide constructive feedback rather than simply marking answers as wrong
• Be fair and offer choices to students
• Show your students trust by encouraging autonomy

4. Empathetic

According to the American Psychological Association , positive and supportive relationships between students and teachers improves students’ academic success and social development. Empathy is key to building relationships and fostering trust

To empathize with your students, try to:

• Acknowledge and validate your students’ feelings
• Listen without judgment
• Let your students know that your classroom is a safe space

5. Creative

A teacher doesn’t need to be an amazing artist to be creative. Show your creativity in your classroom decor, theme, lesson plans, and so on. Get in tune with your creative side by stepping outside your comfort zone and thinking outside the box.

A few ways you foster creativity in your classroom include:

• Giving children the opportunity to explore and experiment
• Showcasing students’ artwork in the classroom and hallway
• Finding unique ways to use sound cues in your classroom, like using a song as a timer

6. Prepared

A good teacher comes prepared to class — just like their students. Preparation for the day entails planning lessons, materials, and other activities. While much of this preparation takes place outside of the classroom, teachers often have dedicated periods to prepare future lessons and grade assignments.

Here are some tips for being prepared as a teacher:

• Put together the week’s lesson plans at the beginning of the week.
• Study your lectures, notes, and assignments beforehand.
• Provide extra materials and additional resources on the topic.

7. Engaging

If a lesson seems boring to you, it’s safe to say your students will likely feel the same, which is why you need to engage with them.

An effective teacher incorporates varying teaching methods to keep students interested in lessons. For instance, project-based teaching lets students work independently or in groups to apply the knowledge they’ve learned in your class.

Implement these strategies to boost engagement :

• Use humor to capture your students’ attention
• Write creative lesson plans that appeal to the most common learning styles
• Facilitate student-led discussion and ask students why the answer is correct

8. Good Listener

Good listening plays a vital role in effective communication, and it allows teachers to understand their students. When teachers better understand their students, they can tailor their teaching to better meet their individual needs.

Here are a few tips for practicing good listening skills :

• Make eye contact with students as they talk.
• Be observant of verbal and nonverbal cues..
• Give a few seconds before responding to ensure the student’s thought is complete.

VIDEO: 5 Tips for New Teachers 

9. Proactive

Being proactive means anticipating potential problems or needs and having an action plan if the situation occurs. A proactive teacher sets practices to avoid challenging situations — often disruptive behaviors — when possible.

You can be proactive as a teacher with these research-backed strategies:

• Greet students at the door when they arrive to set a positive tone for the day.
• Foster relationships with your students so they know you care.
• Establish behavioral expectations and explain the consequences of poor behaviors.

10. Collaborative

Collaboration is vital in most workplaces, and teaching is no different. Schools have several teachers, paraprofessionals , and administrators that work together to create a safe, educational environment for students. When teachers share their knowledge with one another, it creates a well-rounded learning experience for students.

Prioritize collaboration in your teaching career by:

• Getting to know your colleagues within the school and touch base often, especially if you share students
• Being open-minded to constructive criticism and suggestions from peers
• Planning group projects for students to practice collaborating with one another

11. Self-Reflective

While peer and supervisor critique helps educators identify blind-spots, it shouldn’t replace self-reflection. Self-reflection isn’t easy, but it allows you to think critically and boost self-awareness. Practice looking within to identify room for improvement in teaching methods, attitude, and communication.

A few ways you can practice self-reflection are:

• Keep a journal to record what worked well and what to improve upon each day.
• Participate in peer reviews and ask colleagues for feedback, or record your lessons (if allowed).
• Identify repetitive student behaviors or questions to indicate areas for improvement.

12. Growth Mindset

Being self-reflective and prioritizing personal growth go hand in hand. A growth mindset is the concept that you can always better yourself. Individuals who hold a growth mindset approach challenges as opportunities to learn. They view challenges as a way to teach the brain to work harder and, in turn, see improvements in their abilities .

As a teacher, you may always strive to be better, but it’s important to foster that same growth mindset in students. You can do this by:

• Normalizing mistakes and struggles as a way to grow
• Adding the word “yet” to your vocabulary and discouraging the word “can’t”
• Setting achievable goals for your students as a whole and individually

13. Knowledgeable  

As a teacher, you must dedicate yourself to a lifetime of learning and become a fountain of information — after all, you are an expert in your subject, whether it’s history , science , or so on.

Work on widening your knowledge by:

• Reading books on teaching best practices and specific subjects
• Attending education conferences and enrolling in teaching workshops
• Sharing what you’ve learned with other educators

14. Accessible  

To be a good teacher, you must be accessible. You want your students to know they can always come to you, whether to chat about life outside the classroom or get help on homework. As a teacher, you should be there when your students need you.

Show that you are available to your students by:

• Walking around the classroom and checking with students individually while they complete heads-down work
• Encouraging students to come to you with questions
• Telling your students when you have free periods

15. Goal-Driven

A teacher’s main goal is the success of their students. But within that lies everyday goals like acting as a positive influence and hitting specific test grades. You can set goals for students and for yourself as their teacher.

Some examples of achievable goals you could set:

• Be more organized and write the week’s lessons planned out on Sundays.
• Facilitate more productive lessons and encourage active participation through student-led dialogue.
• Introduce more well-rounded lessons utilizing movement, music, art, and critical thinking.

Skills of a Teacher

There’s no shortage of skills needed to be a teacher in the classroom today, from hard skills like computer and writing proficiencies to soft skills like time management and critical thinking.

Hard Skills

Hard skills are taught through education or training, may be measurable, and are often technical. Think of these skills as the absolute requirements you need to do a job or task. For instance, if you are a barista, you need to be able to make a latte.

Examples of hard skills for teachers include:

• Professional certification
• Proficiency in technology
• Grammar and writing skills
• Expertise in your field of study
• Classroom management

Soft Skills

Soft skills are more difficult to measure. They’re similar to personal characteristics that can help make a teacher better at their job. They may be natural to you as a person, but you can also learn them through experience.

Other examples of soft skills for teachers include:

• Effective verbal communication
• Problem-solving
• Time management
• Inclusivity
• Emotional intelligence

What Makes the Best Teacher, Ever?

The best teachers prioritize student-teacher relationships because students who feel valued tend to focus better and enjoy learning. When you embody these qualities and skills, it makes you a stronger educator and sets a good example for students to take into adulthood.

If you’re a new graduate looking to start your teaching career, use these 15 qualities and 10 skills to build your teacher resume and land your first interviews as a teacher .

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• Diagnostic assessments so you know what to study.
• Personalized learning paths tailored around YOU.
• Multi-modal content so you can learn "your way".
• Multiple practice tests that simulate exam day.
• Study and test-taking tips to reduce test anxiety.
• A money-back guarantee that guarantees you pass.

Ace your Praxis exam with full confidence on test day

Get full access to the Praxis catalog with a 240 subscription at one low monthly price. Each subscription includes the following Praxis test titles, so you can ace one or more exams on a single subscription.

• Praxis Core Academic Skills (5752)
• Praxis Core: Reading (5713)
• Praxis Core: Mathematics (5733)
• Praxis Core: Writing (5723)
• Praxis Elementary Education: Multiple Subjects (5001)
• Praxis Elementary Education: Reading and Language Arts (5002)
• Praxis Elementary Education: Mathematics (5003)
• Praxis Elementary Education: Social Studies (5004)
• Praxis Elementary Education: Science (5005)
• Praxis Elementary Education: Multiple Subjects (7001)
• Praxis Elementary Education: Science (7002)
• Praxis Elementary Education: Mathematics (7003
• Praxis Elementary Education: Social Studies (7004)
• Praxis Elementary Education: Science (7005)
• Praxis Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT) K-6 (5622)
• Praxis Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT) 7-12 (5624)
• Praxis ParaPro Assessment (1755)
• Praxis Middle School Mathematics (5169)
• Praxis English Language Arts: Content Knowledge (5038)
• Praxis Social Studies: Content Knowledge (5081)
• Praxis Mathematics: Content Knowledge (5161)
• Praxis English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) (5362)
• Praxis Special Education: Core Knowledge and Mild to Moderate Applications (5543)
• Praxis Special Education: Core Knowledge and Applications (5354)
• Praxis Elementary Education: Content Knowledge for Teaching (7811) Mathematics (7813)
• Praxis Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT): Early Childhood (5621
• Praxis Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT): Grades 5-9 (5623)
• Praxis Early Childhood Education (5025)
• Praxis Education of Young Children (5024)
• Praxis Middle School English Language Arts (5047)
• Praxis Middle School Social Studies (5089)
• Praxis Elementary Education: Content Knowledge (5018)
• Praxis English Language Arts: Content and Analysis (5039)
• Praxis Biology Content Knowledge (5236)
• Praxis Health and Physical Education: Content Knowledge (5857)
• Praxis General Science (5436)
• Praxis Teaching Reading: Elementary (5205)
• Praxis Elementary Education: Content Knowledge for Teaching (7811)
• Praxis Elementary Education: Content Knowledge for Teaching (7811) Reading and Language Arts (7812)
• Praxis Elementary Education: Content Knowledge for Teaching (7811) Science (7814)
• Praxis Elementary Education: Content Knowledge for Teaching (7811) Social Studies (7815)
• Praxis Elementary Education: Three Subjects Bundle (5901) – Mathematics (5903) (AL and CO only)
• Praxis Elementary Education: Three Subjects Bundle (5901) – Social Studies (5904) (AL and CO only)
• Praxis Elementary Education: Three Subjects Bundle (5901) – Science (5905) (AL and CO only)
• Praxis Middle School Science (5442)
• Praxis Social Studies Content and Interpretation (5086)
• Praxis World and U.S. History: Content Knowledge (5941)
• Praxis Physical Education: Content Knowledge (5091)
• Praxis Physical Education: Content and Design (5095)
• Praxis Chemistry: Content Knowledge (5246)
• Praxis Teaching Reading K-12 (5206)
• Praxis Health Education (5551)
• Praxis Algebra 1 (5162)
• Praxis Special Education: Core Knowledge and Severe to Profound Applications (5545)
• Praxis Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT): PreK-12 (5625)
• Praxis Early Childhood Assessment (5026)
• Praxis Early Childhood Assessment (5026) Reading and Language Arts & Social Studies (5027)
• Praxis Early Childhood Assessment (5026): Mathematics & Science (5028)
• Praxis Elementary Education Assessment (5006) Mathematics & Science (5008)
• Praxis Elementary Education Assessment (5006) Reading and Language Arts & Social Studies (5007)
• Praxis Middle School Mathematics (5164)
• Praxis Mathematics Content Knowledge (5165)
• Praxis Special Education: Foundational Knowledge (5355)
• Praxis Special Education: Severe to Profound (5547)
• Praxis Fundamental Subjects: Content Knowledge (5511)
• Praxis School Leaders Licensure Assessment (6990)

Ace your NES exam with full confidence on test day

Get full access to the NES catalog with a 240 subscription at one low monthly price. Each subscription includes the following NES test titles, so you can ace one or more exams on a single subscription.

• Foundation of Reading (190)
• NES Essential Academic Skills: Reading (001)
• NES Essential Academic Skills: Writing (002)
• NES Essential Academic Skills: Mathematics (003)
• NES Essential Academic Skills: Reading (005)
• NES Essential Academic Skills: Writing (006)
• NES Essential Academic Skills:Mathematics (007)
• NES Assessment of Professional Knowledge: Elementary (051)
• NES Assessment of Professional Knowledge: Secondary (052)
• NES Elementary Education Subtest I (102)
• NES Elementary Education Subtest II (103)
• NES Middle Grades English Language Arts (201)
• NES Middle Grades Social Science (202)
• NES Middle Grades Mathematics (203)
• NES Middle Grades General Science (204)
• NES Middle Grades General Science (205)
• NES English Language Arts (301)
• NES History (302)
• NES Social Science (303)
• NES Mathematics (304)
• NES Biology (305)
• NES Chemistry (306)
• NES Earth and Space Science (307)
• NES Physics (308)
• NES General Science (311)
• NES Health (505)
• NES Health (509)
• NES Physical Education (506)
• NES ESOL (507)
• NES Special Education (601)
• NES Special Education (602)
• Praxis Paraprofessional (1755)
• WEST Special Education (070)

Ace your Foundations of Reading exam with full confidence on test day

Get access to the Foundations of Reading study guide for one low monthly price. The study guide is tailored to your unique learning style and comes with engaging content, practice tests, and test-taking strategies to help you ace your exam.

• Alabama Foundations of Reading (190)
• Arizona Foundations of Reading (190)
• Arkansas Foundations of Reading (190)
• Connecticut Foundations of Reading (190)
• Massachusetts Foundations of Reading (190)
• Mississippi Foundations of Reading (190)
• New Hampshire Foundations of Reading (190)
• North Carolina Foundations of Reading (190)
• Ohio Foundations of Reading (190)
• Rhode Island Foundations of Reading (190)
• Utah Foundations of Reading (190)
• Wisconsin Foundations of Reading (190)

Ace your Arizona exam with full confidence on test day

Get full access to the Arizona catalog with a 240 subscription at one low monthly price. Each subscription includes the following NES test titles, so you can ace one or more exams on a single subscription.

Ace your California exam with full confidence on test day

Get full access to the California catalog with a 240 subscription at one low monthly price. Each subscription includes the following CSET, CBEST, CTEL and RICA test titles, so you can ace one or more exams on a single subscription.

• CSET Multiple Subjects Subtest I (101)
• CSET Multiple Subjects Subtest II (214)
• CSET Multiple Subjects Subtest III (225)
• CBEST: Mathematics
• CBEST: Reading
• CBEST: Writing
• CTEL 1 Language and Language Development (031)
• CTEL 2 Assessment and Instruction (032)
• CTEL 3 Culture and Inclusion (033)
• CSET Social Science Subtest I (114)
• CSET Social Science Subtest II (115)
• CSET Social Science Subtest III (116)
• CSET English Subtest I (105)
• CSET English Subtest II (106)
• CSET Physical Education Subtest I (129)
• CSET Physical Education Subtest II (130)
• CSET Physical Education Subtest III (131)
• CSET Health Science Subtest I (178)
• CSET Health Science Subtest II (179)
• CSET Health Science Subtest III (180)
• CSET Mathematics (211-213)
• RICA Written Examination Exam
• CSET: Foundational-Level General Science (215)
• California Assessment of Professional Knowledge (APK): Elementary
• California Assessment of Professional Knowledge (APK): Secondary

Ace your FTCE exam with full confidence on test day

Get full access to the FTCE catalog with a 240 subscription at one low monthly price. Each subscription includes the following FTCE & FELE test titles, so you can ace one or more exams on a single subscription.

• FTCE General Knowledge: Mathematics (828)
• FTCE General Knowledge: English Language Skills (826)
• FTCE General Knowledge: Reading (827)
• FTCE General Knowledge: Essay (825)
• FTCE Reading K-12 (035)
• FTCE Professional Education (083)
• FTCE Prekindergarten / Primary PK-3 (053)
• FTCE PK-3 Subtest 1: Developmental Knowledge (531)
• FTCE PK-3 Subtest 2: Language Arts and Reading (532)
• FTCE PK-3: Subtest 3: Mathematics (533)
• FTCE PK-3: Subtest 4: Science (534)
• FTCE Elementary Education K-6 (060) Subtest 1: Language Arts and Reading (601)
• FTCE Elementary Education K-6 (060) Subtest 2: Social Science (602)
• FTCE Elementary Education K-6 (060) Subtest 3: Science (603)
• FTCE Elementary Education K-6 (060) Subtest 4: Mathematics (604)
• FELE Florida Educational Leadership Examination Complete 084
• FTCE Exceptional Student Education (ESE) K-12 (061)
• FELE Subtest 1: Leadership for Student Learning (084)
• FELE Subtest 2: Organizational Development (084)
• FELE Subtest 3: Systems Leadership (084)
• FTCE Middle Grades English 5–9 (014)
• FTCE Middle Grades 5-9 Mathematics (025)
• FTCE Middle Grades 5-9 General Science (004)
• FTCE Biology 6-12 (002)
• FTCE English 6-12 (013)
• FTCE Mathematics 6-12 (026)
• FTCE Social Science 6-12 (037)
• FTCE ESOL K-12 (047)
• FTCE Physical Education K-12 (063)
• FTCE Middle Grades Social Science 5-9 (038)
• FTCE Chemistry 6-12( 003)
• FTCE Earth/Space Science 6-12 (008)
• FTCE Physics 6-12 (053)
• FTCE Health K-12 (019)

Ace your GACE exam with full confidence on test day

Get full access to the GACE catalog with a 240 subscription at one low monthly price. Each subscription includes the following GACE test titles, so you can ace one or more exams on a single subscription.

• GACE Program Admission Assessment Reading (210)
• GACE Program Admission Assessment Mathematics (211)
• GACE Program Admission Assessment Writing (212)
• GACE Elementary Education Test I (001)
• GACE Elementary Education Test II (002)
• GACE Middle Grades Language Arts (011)
• GACE Middle Grades Reading (012)
• GACE Middle Grades Mathematics (013)
• GACE Middle Grades Science (014)
• GACE Middle Grades Social Science (015)
• GACE Mathematics (522)
• GACE Science (524)
• GACE History (534)
• GACE English to Speakers of Other Languages Test I (119)
• GACE English to Speakers of Other Languages Test II (120)
• GACE Special Education General Curriculum Test I (081)
• GACE Special Education General Curriculum Test II (082)
• GACE Special Education Reading, English Language Arts, Social Studies (087)
• GACE Special Education Mathematics and Science (088)
• GACE Special Education General Curriculum/Elementary Education Test I (003)
• GACE Special Education General Curriculum/Elementary Education Test II (004)
• GACE Paraprofessional (177)

Ace your ILTS exam with full confidence on test day

Get full access to the ILTS catalog with a 240 subscription at one low monthly price. Each subscription includes the following ILTS test titles, so you can ace one or more exams on a single subscription.

• ILTS Elementary Education (305)
• ILTS Early Childhood Education (206)
• ILTS Middle Grades Language Arts (201)
• ILTS Middle Grades Mathematics (202)
• ILTS Middle Grades Science (203)
• ILTS Middle Grades Social Science (204)
• ILTS Mathematics (208)
• ILTS Learning Behavior Specialist 1 (290)
• ILTS English as a New Language (250)

Ace your MTEL exam with full confidence on test day

Get full access to the MTEL catalog with a 240 subscription at one low monthly price. Each subscription includes the following MTEL test titles, so you can ace one or more exams on a single subscription.

• MTEL Communication and Literacy Skills: Reading (101)
• MTEL Communication and Literacy Skills: Writing (201)
• MTEL General Curriculum Mathematics Subtest (178)
• MTEL General Curriculum Multi-Subject Subtest (278)
• MTEL Foundations of Reading (190)
• MTEL English as a Second Language (054)
• MTEL Middle School Humanities (076)
• NES Essential Academic Skills: Reading
• NES Essential Academic Skills: Writing
• Praxis English to Speakers of Other Languages (5362)
• CASA Writing (803)
• CASA Reading (801)

Ace your MTTC exam with full confidence on test day

Get full access to the MTTC catalog with a 240 subscription at one low monthly price. Each subscription includes the following MTTC test titles, so you can ace one or more exams on a single subscription.

• MTTC Elementary Education (103)
• MTTC Social Studies (Secondary) (084)
• MTTC Mathematics (Secondary) (022)
• MTTC Mathematics (Elementary) (089)
• MTTC Language Arts (Elementary) (090)
• MTTC Social Studies (Elementary) (105)
• MTTC Integrated Science (Secondary) (094)
• MTTC Integrated Science (Elementary) (093)
• MTTC Lower Elementary (PK–3) Education Subtest 1: Professional Knowledge and Skills (117)
• MTTC Lower Elementary (PK–3) Education Subtest 2: Literacy (118)
• MTTC Lower Elementary (PK–3) Education Subtest 3: Mathematics (119)
• MTTC Lower Elementary (PK–3) Education Subtest 4: Science and Social Studies (120)
• MTTC English as a Second Language (126)
• MTTC Upper Elementary (3–6) Education Subtest 1 (121)
• MTTC Upper Elementary (3–6) Education Subtest 2 (122)
• MTTC Upper Elementary (3–6) Education Subtest 3 (123)
• MTTC Upper Elementary (3–6) Education Subtest 4 (124)
• MTTC Bilingual Education (125)

Ace your MTLE exam with full confidence on test day

Get full access to the MTLE catalog with a 240 subscription at one low monthly price. Each subscription includes the following MTLE test titles, so you can ace one or more exams on a single subscription.

• MTLE Elementary Education Subtest 1 (191)
• MTLE Elementary Education Subtest 2 (192)
• MTLE Elementary Education Subtest 3 (193)
• MTLE Pedagogy: Elementary (Grades K–6) - Subtest 1 (012)
• MTLE Pedagogy: Elementary (Grades K–6) - Subtest 2 (013)
• MTLE Pedagogy: Secondary (Grades 5–12) - Subtest 1 (209)
• MTLE Pedagogy: Secondary (Grades 5–12) - Subtest 2 (210)
• MTLE Middle Level Social Studies (Grades 5-8) Subtest 1 (032)
• MTLE Middle Level Social Studies (Grades 5-8) Subtest 2 (033)
• MTLE Middle Level Communication Arts/Literature Subtest 1 (196)
• MTLE Middle Level Communication Arts/Literature Subtest 2 (197)
• MTLE Middle Level Mathematics Subtest 1 (217)
• MTLE Middle Level Mathematics Subtest 2 (218)
• MTLE Middle Level Science Subtest 1 (036)
• MTLE Middle Level Science Subtest 2 (037)
• MTLE English as a Second Language Subtest I (194)
• MTLE English as a Second Language Subtest II (194)
• MTLE Mathematics (Grades 5–12) (054)
• NES Essential Academic Skills: Mathematics

Ace your Missouri exam with full confidence on test day

Get full access to the Missouri catalog with a 240 subscription at one low monthly price. Each subscription includes the following MEGA & Praxis test titles, so you can ace one or more exams on a single subscription.

• Praxis Elementary Education: Teaching Reading (7002)
• Praxis Elementary Education: Mathematics (7003)
• Praxis Chemistry Content Knowledge (5246)
• Praxis Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT): Grades 7-12 (5624)
• Praxis Social Studies (5081)
• Praxis: ParaPro Assessment (1755)

Ace your NYSTCE exam with full confidence on test day

Get full access to the NYSTCE catalog with a 240 subscription at one low monthly price. Each subscription includes the following NYSTCE test titles, so you can ace one or more exams on a single subscription.

• NYSTCE Educating All Students (EAS) (201)
• NYSTCE Students with Disabilities (060) - Coming Soon!
• NYSTCE Multi-Subject: Teachers of Early Childhood (Birth–Grade 2) - Coming Soon!
• NYSTCE Multi-Subject: Teachers of Childhood (Grade 1–Grade 6) - Coming Soon!
• NYSTCE Multi-Subject: Secondary Teachers (Grade 7–Grade 12) - Coming Soon!

Ace your NC exams with full confidence on test day

Get full access to the North Carolina catalog with a 240 subscription at one low monthly price. Each subscription includes the following Praxis & Pearson test titles, so you can ace one or more exams on a single subscription.

• Praxis Core Academic Skills For Educators (5752; subtests 5713, 5723, 5733)
• Praxis Elementary Education: Mathematics—CKT (7813)
• Praxis Chemistry (5246)
• Praxis Biology (5236)
• Praxis Mathematics (5165)
• Praxis Social Studies: Content Knowledge (5081
• Praxis Teaching Reading: K–12 (5206)
• Foundations of Reading (190)

Ace your OAE exam with full confidence on test day

Get full access to the OAE catalog with a 240 subscription at one low monthly price. Each subscription includes the following OAE test titles, so you can ace one or more exams on a single subscription.

• OAE Assessment of Professional Knowledge: PK-12 (004)
• OAE Elementary Education Subtest 1 (018)
• OAE Elementary Education Subtest 2 (019)
• OAE Special Education (043)
• OAE Assessment of Professional Knowledge: Middle School 4-9 (002)
• OAE Assessment of Professional Knowledge: Adolescence to Young Adult 7-12 (003)
• OAE English Language Arts (020)
• OAE Intergrated Social Science (025)
• OAE Mathematics (027)
• OAE Middle Grades ELA (028)
• OAE Middle Grades General Science (029)
• OAE Middle Grades Mathematics (030)
• OAE Middle Grades Social Science (031)
• OAE Biology (007)
• OAE English to Speakers of Other Languages (021)
• OAE Intergrated Science (024)
• OAE Health (023)
• OAE Physical Education (034)
• OAE Chemistry (009)
• OAE Earth and Space Science (014)
• OAE Physics (035)
• OAE Assessment of Professional Knowledge (PK-5) (057)
• OAE Primary Education PK-5 (055)
• OAE Primary Special Education PK-5 (058)

Ace your Oregon exam with full confidence on test day

Get full access to the Oregon catalog with a 240 subscription at one low monthly price. Each subscription includes the following NES test titles, so you can ace one or more exams on a single subscription.

Ace your TExES exam with full confidence on test day

Get full access to the TExES catalog with a 240 subscription at one low monthly price. Each subscription includes the following TExES & TX PACT test titles, so you can ace one or more exams on a single subscription.

• TExES Bilingual Education Supplemental (164)
• TExES Bilingual Target Language Proficiency Test (BTLPT) (190)
• TExES Chemistry 7-12 (240)
• TExES Core Subjects 4-8 (211)
• TExES Core Subjects 4-8 (211): ELAR (806)
• TExES Core Subjects 4-8 (211): Mathematics (807)
• TExES Core Subjects 4-8 (211): Science (809)
• TExES Core Subjects 4-8 (211): Social Studies (808)
• TExES Core Subjects EC-6 (391)
• TExES Core Subjects EC-6 (391): English Language Arts and Reading
• TExES Core Subjects EC-6 (391): Fine Arts, Health and Physical Education
• TExES Core Subjects EC-6 (391): Mathematics
• TExES Core Subjects EC-6 (391): Science
• TExES Core Subjects EC-6 (391): Social Studies
• TExES Early Childhood: PK-3 (292) EC-3
• TExES ELAR & Social Studies 4-8 (113)
• TExES English as a Second Language (ESL) Supplemental (154)
• TExES English Language Arts & Reading 4-8 (217)
• TExES English Language Arts & Reading 7-12 (231)
• TExES Health EC-12 (157)
• TExES History 7-12 (233)
• TExES Life Science 7-12 (238)
• TExES Mathematics & Science 4-8 (114)
• TExES Mathematics 4-8 (115)
• TExES Mathematics 7-12 (235)
• TExES Pedagogy and Professional Responsibilities (PPR) (160)
• TExES Physical Education EC-12 (158)
• TExES Physical Science 6-12 (237)
• TExES Principal as Instructional Leader (268)
• TExES Science 4-8 (116)
• TExES Science 7-12 (236)
• TExES Science of Teaching Reading (STR) (293)
• TExES Social Studies 4-8 (118)
• TExES Social Studies 7-12 (232)
• TExES Special Education EC-12 (161)
• TExES Special Education Supplemental (163)

Ace your VCLA and Praxis exams with full confidence on test day

Get full access to the Virginia catalog with a 240 subscription at one low monthly price. Each subscription includes the following Praxis & VCLA test titles, so you can ace one or more exams on a single subscription.

• VCLA Writing Subtest (091)
• VCLA Reading Subtest (092)
• Praxis Elementary Education: Multiple Subjects (5001-5005)
• Praxis Elementary Education: Content Knowledge for Teaching (7811-7815)
• Praxis Algebra I (5162)

Ace your Washington exam with full confidence on test day

Get full access to the Washington catalog with a 240 subscription at one low monthly price. Each subscription includes the following WEST & NES test titles, so you can ace one or more exams on a single subscription.

• WEST-E Special Education (070)

Test Your Knowledge with 240’s Free Practice Tests

Discover your strengths and weaknesses and build a free personalized study plan. Select your exam series to get started.

Praxis Practice Tests

Choose your exam below to take a free practice test.

• Praxis Core: Reading (5713) Practice Test
• Praxis Core: Mathematics (5733) Practice Test
• Praxis Core: Writing (5723) Practice Test
• Praxis Elementary Education (5001): Reading and Language Arts (5002) Practice Test
• Praxis Elementary Education (5001): Mathematics (5003) Practice Test
• Praxis Elementary Education (5001): Social Studies (5004) Practice Test
• Praxis Elementary Education (5001): Science (5005) Practice Test
• Praxis Elementary Education (7001): Teaching Reading (7002)
• Praxis Elementary Education (7001): Mathematics (7003)
• Praxis Elementary Education (7001): Social Studies (7004)
• Praxis Elementary Education (7001): Science (7005)
• Praxis Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT) K-6 (5622) Practice Test
• Praxis Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT) 7-12 (5624) Practice Test
• Praxis ParaPro Assessment (1755) Practice Test
• Praxis English Language Arts: Content Knowledge (5038) Practice Test
• Praxis Social Studies: Content Knowledge (5081) Practice Test
• Praxis English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) (5362) Practice Test
• Praxis Special Education: Core Knowledge and Mild to Moderate Applications (5543) Practice Test
• Praxis Special Education: Core Knowledge and Applications (5354) Practice Test
• Praxis Elementary Education: Content Knowledge for Teaching (7811) Mathematics (7813) Practice Test
• Praxis Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT): Early Childhood (5621) Practice Test
• Praxis Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT): Grades 5-9 (5623) Practice Test
• Praxis Early Childhood Education (5025) Practice Test
• Praxis Education of Young Children (5024) Practice Test
• Praxis Middle School English Language Arts (5047) Practice Test
• Praxis Middle School Social Studies (5089) Practice Test
• Praxis Elementary Education: Content Knowledge (5018) Practice Test
• Praxis English Language Arts: Content and Analysis (5039) Practice Test
• Praxis Biology Content Knowledge (5236) Practice Test
• Praxis Health and Physical Education: Content Knowledge (5857) Practice Test
• Praxis General Science (5436) Practice Test
• Praxis Teaching Reading: Elementary (5205) Practice Test
• Praxis Elementary Education: Content Knowledge for Teaching (7811) Reading and Language Arts (7812) Practice Test
• Praxis Elementary Education: Content Knowledge for Teaching (7811) Science (7814) Practice Test
• Praxis Elementary Education: Content Knowledge for Teaching (7811) Social Studies (7815) Practice Test
• Praxis Elementary Education: Three Subjects Bundle (5901) – Mathematics (5903) (AL and CO only) Practice Test
• Praxis Elementary Education: Three Subjects Bundle (5901) – Social Studies (5904) (AL and CO only) Practice Test
• Praxis Elementary Education: Three Subjects Bundle (5901) – Science (5905) (AL and CO only) Practice Test
• Praxis Middle School Science (5442) Practice Test
• Praxis Social Studies Content and Interpretation (5086) Practice Test
• Praxis World and U.S. History: Content Knowledge (5941) Practice Test
• Praxis Physical Education: Content Knowledge (5091) Practice Test
• Praxis Physical Education: Content and Design (5095) Practice Test
• Praxis Chemistry: Content Knowledge (5246) Practice Test
• Praxis Teaching Reading K-12 (5206) Practice Test
• Praxis Health Education (5551) Practice Test
• Praxis Algebra 1 (5162) Practice Test
• Praxis Special Education: Core Knowledge and Severe to Profound Applications (5545) Practice Test
• Praxis Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT): PreK-12 (5625) Practice Test
• Praxis Early Childhood Assessment (5026) Reading and Language Arts & Social Studies (5027) Practice Test
• Praxis Early Childhood Assessment (5026): Mathematics & Science (5028) Practice Test
• Praxis Elementary Education Assessment (5006) Mathematics & Science (5008) Practice Test
• Praxis Elementary Education Assessment (5006) Reading and Language Arts & Social Studies (5007) Practice Test
• Praxis Middle School Mathematics (5164) Practice Test
• Praxis Mathematics Content Knowledge (5165) Practice Test
• Praxis Special Education: Foundational Knowledge (5355) Practice Test
• Praxis Special Education: Severe to Profound (5547) Practice Test
• Praxis Fundamental Subjects: Content Knowledge (5511) Practice Test
• Praxis School Leaders Licensure Assessment (6990) Practice Test
• Virginia Communication and Literacy Assessment (VCLA) Reading Subtest (091) Practice Test
• Virginia Communication and Literacy Assessment (VCLA) Writing Subtest (092) Practice Test

NES Practice Tests

• NES Essential Academic Skills: Reading (001) Practice Test
• NES Essential Academic Skills: Writing (002) Practice Test
• NES Essential Academic Skills: Mathematics (003) Practice Test
• NES Essential Academic Skills: Reading (005) Practice Test
• NES Essential Academic Skills: Writing (006) Practice Test
• NES Essential Academic Skills:Mathematics (007) Practice Test
• NES Assessment of Professional Knowledge: Elementary (051) Practice Test
• NES Assessment of Professional Knowledge: Secondary (052) Practice Test
• NES Elementary Education Subtest I (102) Practice Test
• NES Elementary Education Subtest II (103) Practice Test
• NES Middle Grades English Language Arts (201) Practice Test
• NES Middle Grades Social Science (202) Practice Test
• NES Middle Grades Mathematics (203) Practice Test
• NES Middle Grades General Science (204) Practice Test
• NES Middle Grades General Science (205) Practice Test
• NES English Language Arts (301) Practice Test
• NES History (302) Practice Test
• NES Social Science (303) Practice Test
• NES Mathematics (304) Practice Test
• NES Biology (305) Practice Test
• NES Chemistry (306) Practice Test
• NES Earth and Space Science (307) Practice Test
• NES Physics (308) Practice Test
• NES General Science (311) Practice Test
• NES Health (505) Practice Test
• NES Health (509) Practice Test
• NES Physical Education (506) Practice Test
• NES ESOL (507) Practice Test
• NES Special Education (601) Practice Test
• NES Special Education (602) Practice Test
• WEST Special Education (070) Practice Test

Foundations of Reading Practice Tests

• Alabama Foundations of Reading (190) Practice Test
• Arizona Foundations of Reading (190) Practice Test
• Arkansas Foundations of Reading (190) Practice Test
• Connecticut Foundations of Reading (190) Practice Test
• Massachusetts Foundations of Reading (190) Practice Test
• Mississippi Foundations of Reading (190) Practice Test
• New Hampshire Foundations of Reading (190) Practice Test
• North Carolina Foundations of Reading (190) Practice Test
• Ohio Foundations of Reading (190) Practice Test
• Rhode Island Foundations of Reading (190) Practice Test
• Utah Foundations of Reading (190) Practice Test
• Wisconsin Foundations of Reading (190) Practice Test

AEPA Practice Tests

California practice tests.

• CSET Multiple Subjects Subtest I (101) Practice Test
• CSET Multiple Subjects Subtest II (214) Practice Test
• CSET Multiple Subjects Subtest III (225) Practice Test
• CBEST: Mathematics Practice Test
• CBEST: Reading Practice Test
• CTEL 1 Language and Language Development (031) Practice Test
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Texes practice tests.

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West practice tests.

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• Philosophy of Teaching

Nine Characteristics of a Great Teacher

• January 14, 2013
• Maria Orlando EdD

Y ears ago, as a young, eager student, I would have told you that a great teacher was someone who provided classroom entertainment and gave very little homework. Needless to say, after many years of K-12 administrative experience and giving hundreds of teacher evaluations, my perspective has changed. My current position as a professor in higher education gives me the opportunity to share what I have learned with current and future school leaders, and allows for some lively discussions among my graduate students in terms of what it means to be a great teacher.

Teaching is hard work and some teachers never grow to be anything better than mediocre. They do the bare minimum required and very little more. The great teachers, however, work tirelessly to create a challenging, nurturing environment for their students. Great teaching seems to have less to do with our knowledge and skills than with our attitude toward our students, our subject, and our work. Although this list is certainly not all-inclusive, I have narrowed down the many characteristics of a great teacher to those I have found to be the most essential, regardless of the age of the learner:

1. A great teacher respects students. In a great teacher’s classroom, each person’s ideas and opinions are valued. Students feel safe to express their feelings and learn to respect and listen to others. This teacher creates a welcoming learning environment for all students.

2. A great teacher creates a sense of community and belonging in the classroom. The mutual respect in this teacher’s classroom provides a supportive, collaborative environment. In this small community, there are rules to follow and jobs to be done and each student is aware that he or she is an important, integral part of the group. A great teacher lets students know that they can depend not only on her, but also on the entire class.

3. A great teacher is warm, accessible, enthusiastic and caring. This person is approachable, not only to students, but to everyone on campus. This is the teacher to whom students know they can go with any problems or concerns or even to share a funny story. Great teachers possess good listening skills and take time out of their way-too-busy schedules for anyone who needs them. If this teacher is having a bad day, no one ever knows—the teacher leaves personal baggage outside the school doors.

4. A great teacher sets high expectations for all students. This teacher realizes that the expectations she has for her students greatly affect their achievement; she knows that students generally give to teachers as much or as little as is expected of them.

5. A great teacher has his own love of learning and inspires students with his passion for education and for the course material. He constantly renews himself as a professional on his quest to provide students with the highest quality of education possible. This teacher has no fear of learning new teaching strategies or incorporating new technologies into lessons, and always seems to be the one who is willing to share what he’s learned with colleagues.

6. A great teacher is a skilled leader. Different from administrative leaders, effective teachers focus on shared decision-making and teamwork, as well as on community building. This great teacher conveys this sense of leadership to students by providing opportunities for each of them to assume leadership roles.

7. A great teacher can “shift-gears” and is flexible when a lesson isn’t working. This teacher assesses his teaching throughout the lessons and finds new ways to present material to make sure that every student understands the key concepts.

8. A great teacher collaborates with colleagues on an ongoing basis. Rather than thinking of herself as weak because she asks for suggestions or help, this teacher views collaboration as a way to learn from a fellow professional. A great teacher uses constructive criticism and advice as an opportunity to grow as an educator.

9. A great teacher maintains professionalism in all areas —from personal appearance to organizational skills and preparedness for each day. Her communication skills are exemplary, whether she is speaking with an administrator, one of her students or a colleague. The respect that the great teacher receives because of her professional manner is obvious to those around her.

While teaching is a gift that seems to come quite naturally for some, others have to work overtime to achieve great teacher status. Yet the payoff is enormous — for both you and your students. Imagine students thinking of you when they remember that great teacher they had in college!

Dr. Maria Orlando is a core faculty member in the doctoral Educational Leadership and Management Specialization at Capella University. She also serves as an adjunct professor at Lindenwood University in St. Charles, Missouri.

This Post Has 72 Comments

This strikes me as a list of necessary but not sufficient conditions for being a great teacher. What makes a teacher great is reaching to present difficult content, ideas, debates, issues in a lucid, compelling way, time after time. A great teacher works hard to prepare, to think freshly about the material she's teaching, and to find current examples that will grab her students' interest. A great teacher makes the classroom magic happen, regularly. She or he elicits her students' best efforts and engages their minds, so that they leave class still alive with ideas and comments, and they talk about what went on in class with their friends, roommates, family when they get home too.

Once in a while, something comes along that you want to carry with you, make a poster of and post it in your office; something you need to read every now and then to remind you of your destination, something to aspire and inspire. Today, your post was that "something". Thank you and thank you @FacultyFocus.

I'd like to add several points to this list of 'greats' — (1) great teachers create learning experiences rather than instructional episodes — by constantly refining how to get the students from what they arrive knowing to what they need to understand or be able to do when they leave; (2) great teachers walk their own talk — by that I mean they embody and model the spirit of what they teach & expect of their students; and (3) great teachers can see their own work through their students' eyes — they have not lost their personal connection to what it's like to be a student. When the learning goes well, a great teacher ensures the students own this success. When it doesn't, the 'buck' lands firmly in the teacher's lap.

When learning doesn't go well, it is not necessarily the teacher's fault. I think the teacher has the responsibility to understand why it didn't go as well as hoped, but students are accountable for their own learning and often do not accept that responsibility.

I agree with this completely. As adults students must take charge of their own learning. As instructors we do our best to provide learning experiences, but if the student doesn't want to take charge and learn, they're not going to.

Those who don't see themselves being all nine (or at least working diligently toward excellence in), shouldn't be teaching. Having said that, perfection in all areas and all circumstances isn't attainable either. So, I strive to learn and grow daily in these nine (and the additional items recommended by suehellman). Some days are better than others (-:

A great list…and some great follow-up comments & suggestions – here's another one: DON'T BE AFRAID TO MAKE MISTAKES (OR ADMIT THEM)! A teacher is human and one of the best role modelling strategies we can impart on our students is to learn from our mistakes. If you are wrong – 'fess up and fix it! We expect nothing less from our students. I think this is a subset of high expectations and accountability, yes?

In short a great teacher always follow A RA , A=Acknowledge, R=respect and A= Appreciation

A great teacher also encourages both genders. There is only on male pronoun used in the article!

I see two. Also, some of the points are written in gender-neutral language. Please don't be so silly.

I find it interesting that substituting "she" for the usual, acceptable "he" pronoun is somehow seen as a glarring omission……I doubt if keeping with the typical default pronoun "he" would have even been recognized, much less commented upon. Think about it….

a great teacher do not allow exploitation of her environment, of her institution… especially when the teaching is happening in the most uncomfortable, and among the poor countries in asia….

A great teacher is a guide and a facilitator, who leads by example.

A great teacher is always a best guide, Friend and philosopher. This is a very good article and the points gives a teacher a right direction.

What a great article! I'll be sharing this with my Adult Education students this semester…

Fantastic article!! Thank you Maria! If I could be so bold as to add one more to the list? I believe great teachers teach problem solving, not just how to find the "answer."

I think #5 (A great teacher has his own love of learning) is really important. Teachers needs to continually renew themselves and their knowledge. The wisdom of today may not be the wisdom of tomorrow. In fact, the wisdom of today may be proved wrong tomorrow.

Great post. Some of the points can be bunched into one. Thomas Anthony Angelo's Teachers dozen http://www.csuchico.edu/~lseder/ceeoc/teachers_dozen.pdf is a more complete list of what great teaching entails.

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This is a wonderful reminder of what teachers who want to be great strive to do. I also like what Pat Boling added to this. Thank you, Maria and Pat!

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Reading the posts after the article was as informative and helped me grow as much as the article. Kudos to you all. I would like to add that as elementary as this seems, creating a learning environment online that helps students feel "safe." Safe to explore, to make mistakes, to try and not be judged for his/her thoughts and opinions….to me, that is true learning and growth. Shawn Feaster Johnson, Ed.D.

A great teacher is one who has an incredibly challenging class, a class of uninterested students – and the teacher tries EVERYTHING but never gives up. One can have all the skills mentioned here and still not move a class – and that is the biggest challenge of all – coming to class everyday willing to try something new, never giving up although the class just never ignites. I've only had one class like this in my career, fortunately. The comment that the students need to want to learn is a wise observation, and a true one; a teacher is half the equation, and can only do so much, even the great ones. Not all students can be inspired, unfortunately. But we can't stop trying!

A great teacher doesn't allow the students who struggle more often to fall through the cracks. The best teachers are definitely the ones that treat each and every student with respect and the ones that will have complete gratitude for you when you accomplish something, and be disappointed when you let yourself slack. If you see your teacher's disinterest in a topic you tend to allow yourself to drift away, nothing is more interesting to a student than seeing passion about a topic. Great teaching to me was the incorporation of different teaching styles when one wasn't working and understanding that extra time outside of class is necessary for every student to get where they need to be. There was students in my classes who thoroughly didn't want to learn and if they even came to class, actively tried to disrupt it. The teacher that got through to those students, even just once, were the most skilled as they understood that everyone strives for something in life and could be personable enough to any student that the student would reveal that dream. I am most grateful of the teachers in my life that embodied any of those aspects and any of the nine above because without them I may not be where I am today.

A great teacher inspires and heroic in communication.Usually teachers who teach primary level are those who are fresh in the minds of students. These students keep their teachers in mind fresh and adore at all time. They are great. So that type of qualities-NOBLE -MINDEDNESS- are essential

Personally, I believe that these characteristics ARE the bare minimum for being even a decent teacher. That may be because my background is in elementary education, but I was taught that these were just the things you did. I had to go above any beyond all of these tips to truly be a great teacher. Always strive to be better than the minimum.

A great teacher is an accepted personality to the learner. Personally, I believe that every accepted teacher is a self made person, understand the learners more, devote significant quality time on self learning and imparts the relevant learning to make it the part of the learners culture.

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Superb article! I work with Maria in the doctoral program at Capella and can tell you that she embodies all of the characteristics she writes about in her work with our learners. A gifted colleague who 'walks the talk'. It is an honor to work with her.

This is one of those articles that needs to find its way to the teacher training programs both via the instructor and by providing a copy of this document to the learners. I don't think one can move forward and make a difference in the lives of the learners without what Maria has described and presented to us. This is exceptional and so on target. Terrific job Maria. I can't wait to read your next work.

Thank you Ralph!

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This is a great article. I would like to share it with my colleagues in a teacher's in – service training. May I have your permission, Maria? And of course the rest of you who contributed through your wonderful comments, may I quote you guys? I'm sure this will help them improve their teaching and inspire them to do so during the coming school year. IThank you very much everybody.You make me feel that teachers really, really care. THANK YOU!!

A great teacher should always remember that he/she is a human being and he/she is dealing with human beings too, and that he/she is the adult while the learners ,especially in first stages ,are younger than him/her and then need our care, exactly as parents with their kids .THANK YOU!!

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Firstly a Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us. A person with experience can present anything in a better way. The characteristics of a good teacher you have discussed are the key characteristics of any teacher. A teacher having urge to teach and help students in learning and collaborate with them can be successful teacher. A good teacher always keep himself/herself on the road of learning. Having these qualities a teacher can produce good students for their nation.

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learning is a power how u treat it in the class

a great teacher also is one who knows and can identify all problem of his students.

Great teacher is usually born out of experience.Teaching is nothing but reaching in to the child , if you could do it you will be ever remembered and respected

Teachers are great messengers;their mission is to grow well seeds in order to harvest better crops; so they have to help their students grow despite their pitfalls

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Dr.Maria Orlando points are true and excellent it encourages me to do more and bring a new generation to the knowledge and wisdom that they are looking for, I am excited and trill.

How do you know if you have what it takes? You could pu it allof this hard work snd still remain a crappy teacher. How will you tell?

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23 Qualities of a Good Teacher

Chris Drew (PhD)

Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

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In a recent professional development day, we were asked to begin by brainstorming the qualities of a good teacher.

If you’ve ever been in a staff room, I’m sure you’ll agree this question sparked a lot of engaged discussions. Teachers aren’t shy about sharing their opinions on these matters, I’ve found.

Well, at the end of the activity I slyly tucked away the flip chart paper on which we scribbled all our notes, knowing it’d be a great idea for my blog post topic of the week.

So, below, for all you teachers (and I’m sure university students!) out there brainstorming qualities of a great teacher – look no further!

Let’s begin…

Read Also: Is Being a Teacher Worth it? (Why I Quit Teaching)

Qualities of a Good Teacher

1. a focus on learning.

This is the one I suggested to the group first up.

I find that some people first entering the classroom (Including myself once!) tend to lack focus.

They want to focus on being a fun teacher or being the light of a child’s life. They have great aspirations and ambitions for what a good teacher is

… and it all comes crashing down. Fast.

Well, before long, we teachers realize that fun is important. And so is inspiration and aspiration. But right at the core, when you strip away all the other layers, lies one important goal:

To ensure students learn.

A clear-eyed focus on learning helps us develop quality lessons every time.

It ensures we don’t go off script and realize ten weeks into the term that … wait, I’m not even half way through the curriculum! I’ve got a parent-teacher interview coming up and little Johnny has shown no progress!

And … perhaps worse … my students don’t respect me!

Cue point 2 …

Related: Qualities of a Good Manager

2. Advanced Group Management Skills

The second key quality of a quality teacher is their ability to manage groups of children.

I know these are unconventional ones to start with (yes, I’ll get to the clichés like ‘Patience’ in a moment).. But I think these first two points are really at the heart of what teachers learn their job is all about in the first few years .

So … group management.

It’s probably the number 1 skill new teachers realize they need if they’re going to succeed beyond the first term.

The tiny skills of knowing where to stand in the classroom, how to set table arrangements , use inflection in your voice, project an identity and project authority are huge qualities that make a good teacher.

An authority in the space of classroom management is Michael Linsen of Smart Classroom Management – I’d recommend him to any new teacher seeking tips on how to develop the qualities of a good manger of students. I first came across him on the Cult of Pedagogy podcast and have recently been finding myself going back to his blog posts a lot.

3. Power over your Voice

This quality is a part of the previous two.

In other words, power over the voice is essential for:

• Teaching students well; and
• Managing students well

For teaching well, having power over your voice is about knowing how to pause to let content sink in, emphasize the important terms, and express interest in the topic. You need to be an expressive speaker, you need to be engaging, understand how to use pitch and pause for effect.

Then, there’s the ability to use your voice for classroom management.

Here’s Michael Linsen again:

“Yelling, shouting, barking orders, and the like is antagonistic. It creates a you-against-them relationship rather than one grounded in respect and rapport. The result is an unlikable teacher whose only means of influence is intimidation.”

4. Patience

Okay, now for the big one. Patience.

It’s the first one most teachers would come up with when you ask them: what’s the top quality of a good teacher?

Because you use it. Every. Single. Day.

When you’re marking your 23 rd Essay on the exact same topic today. When you’re struggling – hard – to get a student to understand a concept (that seems so insanely easy to you).

If you haven’t go patience, you aren’t going to make it as a teacher. You … will … hate … it.

So, Teachers Need Patience : it’s a cliché for a reason.

5. Humility

I learned this fast as a university teacher.

I make mistakes. I made many, many, many more in my first 2-3 years. But, I still make mistakes.

And usually, the mistakes I make are done under pressure.

To use a Tennis term, I don’t tend to make unforced errors anymore.

But when I’ve got 169 assignments to mark in 13 days (starting on the 13 th of this month – Lord give me strength), there’s a good chance I’m going to make some mistakes under pressure – or ‘forced errors’ in tennis terms.

It’s the pressure of the job.

And when students come up to me and say “Mate, you messed up!” … I’m going to need the humility to say “Yes, sorry, let me look at that again for you.”

To quote the great Kendrick Lamar says: “Be Humble.”

6. Willingness to Learn

And this one, I think, builds on the previous.

It’s a “the more you know the more you realize you don’t know anything” situation.

I’m about to come up to my 9 th year as an educator. And I don’t know squat. I teach teachers and I am still aware that I’ve got a mountain of stuff to learn.

Teachers need to be learning constantly .

Earlier, I mentioned that I have a new blog that I go to for classroom management advice. 9 years in, and I’m still learning a ton of information from that site. It’s never going to end.

If you’re too stubborn to realize you’ve got a lot to learn, you’re going to be a terrible teacher.

So, be willing to learn. Endlessly.

7. Desire to Help

Here’s a more upbeat one.

I think the thing that gets me out of bed in the morning is that I genuinely want to help my students out.

When a student needs help after the bell has rung at the end of the day, a good teacher is not the sort of person to tell them “Sorry, school’s out.”

And I think anyone who feels that way is going to really hate their job.

At the heart of this point is the reality that teaching is more than a job , it’s a vocation (sorry of the clichés here … it’s hard to write this post without them!). But yep, it’s true. You’ve got to be a person who really gives a lot of themselves to their job.

In return, you’ll get more than just a paycheck – you’ll get a community.

8. A Focus on Social Justice

Here’s something that unites us.

We teachers tend to care about justice. A lot.

It’s a personal quality that comes from working with the disadvantaged and disempowered. It comes form realizing that there’s more to school than meritocracy .

Kids fail because their parents aren’t feeding them a nutritious diet. Kids fail because they have dyslexia , or struggle with academics. Kids fail for all sorts of reasons out of their control. This can’t be a dog-eat-dog world where people are entirely to blame for their lot in life. And on the front lines of teaching, we live that reality every day.

That’s what makes teachers – in general – deeply focused on social justice. We understand the importance of having a community that digs in and bands together to get everyone over the finish line.

Point 8 previous point naturally leads to Point 9.

We’re empathetic through and through.

It’s hard not to be. Working in close quarters with kids who go through pretty tough situations, your heart has to go out to these kids.

As a university teacher, I see it in my adult students, too. They’re single mothers digging deep to get a degree while working full-time and struggling to pay the bills.

Everyone’s got their own stuff going on. Life’s tough. And we see it in our jobs every single day.

10. Pedagogical Knowledge

A good teacher knows how to teach.

‘ Pedagogy ’ is just that: the ability to teach.

At university, all teachers are taught a concept called pedagogical content knowledge.

It goes something like this:

A good teacher knows how to teach (pedagogy) and what they’re teaching (content).

Let’s start with pedagogy.

Pedagogy is everything from the art of breaking concepts down into bite-sized chunks to knowing when students’ brains are saturated and it’s time to take a break.

It’s an intuition (or ‘ tacit knowledge ’) just as much as it’s an explicit understanding of what needs to be done.

And good teachers have it. They know what needs to be done to get students from A to B.

11. Content Knowledge

The second half of the pedagogical content knowledge equation is, clearly, content.

If you’re a science teacher, you damn well better understand Newton’s Third Law.

It’s as simple as that.

But it’s one more quality of a good teacher: you’ve got to have a bit of smarts about you. You need to know your content inside out so that your students learn the correct information.

So if you’re a university student reading this post, you might want to ask yourself: If I want to be a good teacher, do I need to brush up on my content?

If so, you’ve got a few years to work on it before you stand in front of a classroom and start teaching them Newton’s Third Law.

12. Strong Work Ethic

My mother was a teacher and she taught me this.

With four kids and a full-time teaching job, she’d come home, cook us dinner, then head straight to her office to plan lessons for the next day.

Teaching can give you a demanding workload. There’s no slacking off. You’re switched on, planning lessons, and digging deep and working hard even when you’re tired in order to get the work done.

As a university teacher, this is no more evident than when it’s my marking period. My contract gives me 25 minutes to mark and give feedback on a 2000-word essay. Then, I turn around and do it again. And again. 169 times.

Good teachers know how to work hard to get the job done.

13. Flexibility

If you’ve got stringent ideas about how your lessons are going to play out, you’ll have a lot to learn!

Working with students – and especially children – will throw up new problems. All the time. Endlessly.

A good teacher is a flexible teacher. They need to be able to think on their feet and make changes to their lesson plans based on the needs of their students. When a student doesn’t understand the way you’re teaching something, you’ll need to change it on the spot.

14. Generosity / Sharing

The teaching profession is a sharing profession.

We understand that our jobs are tough – really tough. And that there’s a lot of hard work and preparation that goes into writing lessons.

So, teachers like to share.

When you’re starting out you’ll be relying on your senior colleagues a lot. They’ll point you in the right direction, share their resources and ensure you’re on the right track.

Teachers aren’t in competition with each other. We want to see all children succeed, no matter whose class they’re in. So, we’re usually very willing to share our content for the good of all.

15. Commitment to Local Communities

Teaching is a community-oriented profession.

We’re not just teachers of individuals. We’re teachers of the next shop assistants, lawyers, bakers and doctors.

Any teacher who has worked in a community for a good 20 years will know what I mean. You have a connection to just about everyone in your community.

And, you’ll be able to turn up to community events and be welcomed with open arms.

You need to be community-minded to be a great teacher. You need to care about your community because you’re at the heart of it. You’ll be committed to its success.

And the great thing is, you’ll get to see your community grow and thrive over time and know you were part of it.

16. Professionalism under Pressure

There will be times when parents and superiors will put you under a lot of pressure. Your students may also cause a lot of stress and strain on you. As a university professor, I have the added job of students sometimes applying the heat on me about their course.

You need to be a consummate professional when you’re under pressure. Especially from parents. You need to respond to aggressive behavior with calmness. You will need to help explain and reassure your parents and students about how things are going.

And of course, you’ll need to respect and take on board the concerns and input of everyone – all while being an absolute professional.

17. Resilience & Sense of Humor

Great teachers can laugh. They can laugh with (not at) their students. And they can laugh at themselves and at their situations.

Fortunately, when I taught in Kindergarten, it was a very funny place. Kids really do say and do the funniest things.

But at times, things go wrong. Your lessons will come undone due to circumstances well beyond your control. Children will wet their pants, call you “Mommy” and make wildly inappropriate comments (which are, usually, hilarious in their own way).

And all the way through all of this, you can’t fall apart.

You’ve got to be able to smile and laugh your way through.

Or else … you’ll go mad.

18. Positivity & Enthusiasm

Your students and their parents don’t care that your marriage is falling apart. They don’t care that you’re mourning the death of a family member or you have had a medical scare over the weekend.

Teachers need to paint on their happy face and march into the classroom every day knowing they have a job to do.

In the classroom, you need to put all your effort into creating a positive learning environment. It’s your job to set the scene. Your behavior and mannerisms are picked up by your students.

You need to show your students that you’re interested and love the idea of teaching and learning this particular packet of information you’ll be covering today.

If you’re flat for the day, the students will suffer. So, put on that happy, entertaining and enthusiastic face for the sake of the little learners in your care.

19. Kindness

Good teachers are kind teachers.

When a student has made a mistake or been rude to you, you can’t call them a jerk. You can’t talk down to them or give them the cold shoulder for a week as a punishment for their behavior .

You need to get down to their level and let them know you forgive them, and you believe in their ability to do better.

There’s no room in the classroom for a teacher who hasn’t got the wellbeing, happiness and success of their students in their minds. Even when a student is coming across as a complete and utter jerk … you’ve got to be kind. It’s your job.

20. Research Skills

Yes, I know … I’m a university teacher so I have my skin in the game for this point.

But, I believe it to be true.

Quality research skills are central to being a good educator.

For one thing, you need to be able to gather the information that’s true, accurate and most appropriate for your students to learn. There’s no point getting the first thing you found on google and teaching that. Who knows if it’s wrong?

Instead, you’ve got to know who and what sources to trust. I usually start with trusted senior teachers in my school. How can they give me quality information about the content I’m teaching?

You also need to be able to research good teaching skills . The internet is full of lesson ideas … but which one is quality and which isn’t?

I recommend starting to gather a portfolio of trustworthy sources now – including websites designed to support teachers as well as quality books on teaching and learning.

21. Quality Teachers Keep their Commitments

Do what you say you’re going to do.

If a teacher promises a student they’re going to follow up on something, they’d better follow up!

Our students really do hang onto our every word. If we promise something, they’re going to remember if you followed through.

The same thing goes for commitments to colleagues. If you tell a colleague you’ll cover lunch duty for them, it’s your responsibility to keep your word.

We rely on each other an awful lot in this profession. So we’ve got to set and keep our commitments when we make them.

22. Organization Skills are a Must

With 25 – 30 students in any classroom, you need to be able to walk in there and know what you’re doing every time.

And you need to know Plan B and Plan C as well.

What happens if a student finishes super early? What happens if a student finishes late? What happens if the whole class doesn’t understand? What happens if …?

Anything can happen.

Then, you’ve got the bigger picture.

How far through the curriculum are you? Will you be able to get it all completed by the end of the school year? What’s your plan?

23. You’ve got to be Mildly Insane

And last but not least, all of us in the professional development meeting agreed: you’ve got to be mildly insane to be a good teacher.

You need to put yourself through all-nighters to get those reports written and essays marked. You’ve got to keep on going when it’s the last thing you want to do.

And you constantly think about quitting, but then remember … hey, the good outweighs the bad. And we’re all mildly insane together!

• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 101 Hidden Talents Examples
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• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 15 Signs you're Burnt Out, Not Lazy
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 15 Toxic Things Parents Say to their Children

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10 Essential Qualities of a Good Teacher

Teaching, often considered both an art and a science, is a profession that demands a blend of knowledge, skills, and personal attributes. So, what makes a good teacher? The skills and attributes of an outstanding teacher are multifaceted, ranging from deep subject knowledge to the ability to inspire and motivate students. This article delves into ten essential qualities that define excellent teaching, each playing a pivotal role in creating a rich, productive, and memorable learning experience for students.

Communication Skills: The Most Important Quality of a Good Teacher

At the heart of effective teaching lies communication. An excellent teacher is, first and foremost, a superb communicator, capable of conveying complex ideas in a manner that students can comprehend. They adeptly use verbal and non-verbal cues, written instructions, and digital platforms to ensure their message is clear, concise, and relatable. Whether elucidating the nuances of a Shakespearean sonnet or the principles of quantum physics, good teachers make learning accessible and engaging. They also understand that communication is a two-way street, encouraging students to express their thoughts and questions.

The Impact of a Teacher's Attitude on the Learning Environment

A teacher's attitude can significantly influence the learning environment. A friendly, positive attitude can inspire students, foster a sense of trust, and create a welcoming classroom atmosphere. Teachers who approach their work with enthusiasm and a smile encourage students to engage with the material, ask questions, and participate in class discussions. On the other hand, a negative attitude can hinder learning, creating barriers between the teacher and the students. Therefore, a positive demeanor is not just a desirable quality but a necessary one.

Why is Patience a Crucial Quality for a Teacher?

Patience is a virtue, especially in teaching. Teachers encounter a diverse range of students, each with their unique strengths, weaknesses, and learning pace. Patience allows teachers to accommodate these differences, ensuring that no student is left behind. It also enables teachers to manage classroom disruptions calmly and effectively, maintaining a positive learning environment even in challenging situations. Patience also extends to understanding that learning is a process, and progress might be slow but is significant nonetheless.

Listening Skills

Listening is as crucial as speaking in teaching. Good teachers are active listeners, paying close attention to their students' words, emotions, and body language. However, they also recognize and overcome listening barriers such as distractions, preconceptions, or emotional reactions that can prevent them from fully understanding their students. They listen to understand, not merely to respond. This understanding enables them to address students' concerns, answer their questions, and adapt their teaching methods to cater to students' individual learning styles. By doing so, they foster an environment where students feel heard and valued, promoting better engagement and learning outcomes.

The Role of a Strong Work Ethic in Teaching

A strong work ethic forms the backbone of successful teaching. It's more than just showing up and going through the motions. It's about preparation, dedication, and a commitment to excellence. Teachers with a strong work ethic set high standards for themselves and their students. They're always looking for ways to improve their teaching methods, to make their lessons more engaging, and to ensure their students are learning effectively. They understand that teaching is not a 9-to-5 job but a commitment that often extends beyond the classroom and school hours.

Organizational Skills

Teaching is a juggling act, and organization is the key to keeping all those balls in the air. Good teachers are masters of time management, lesson planning, and resource allocation. They keep their classrooms tidy, their lessons structured, and their schedules efficient. This organization enables them to maximize learning time, reduce stress, and ensure that every student gets the attention they need. Without proper organization, even the best-planned lessons can fall apart, leading to ineffective teaching and learning.

Preparation

Preparation is the secret weapon of successful teachers. They spend hours planning lessons, grading assignments, and researching new teaching methods. They know their curriculum inside out and are always ready to answer questions or explain concepts in different ways. Preparation allows teachers to manage their time effectively, set clear expectations, and adapt to unexpected situations. It's the behind-the-scenes work that often goes unnoticed but is crucial to effective teaching.

Discipline Skills

Discipline is essential for maintaining a positive learning environment. Good teachers set clear rules and expectations, consistently enforcing them with fairness and respect. They promote positive behaviors, discourage disruptive ones, and ensure that every student feels safe and respected in the classroom. They understand that discipline is not about punishment but about teaching students self-control, responsibility, and respect for rules.

Student-Friendly Teaching Environment

A student-friendly environment is one that encourages learning, curiosity, and participation. It's a space where students feel comfortable asking questions, making mistakes, and expressing their ideas. Good teachers create such environments by being approachable, respectful, and supportive. They recognize that personal issues and negative emotions can hinder learning, and they strive to make their classrooms a sanctuary where students can focus on learning.

How Does Respect Factor into the Qualities of a Good Teacher?

Respect is a two-way street in teaching. Good teachers respect their students as individuals, acknowledging their unique perspectives, experiences, and aspirations. They treat students with kindness and fairness, never resorting to ridicule or humiliation. In return, they earn their students' respect, creating a positive teacher-student relationship that enhances learning and cooperation.

Being a good teacher is about more than just knowledge and skills. It's about attitude, patience, communication, and respect. It's about creating a positive learning environment where students feel valued, motivated, and engaged. These ten qualities of a good teacher are not exhaustive, but they offer a solid foundation for effective teaching. By embodying these qualities, teachers can make a lasting impact on their students' lives, inspiring them to learn, grow, and succeed.

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Essential Qualities of a Good Teacher

Teachers Need to be Self-Aware, Perceptive, and Knowledgeable

Illustration by Derek Abella. ThoughtCo.

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Measurable and Measuring

To be self-aware, to perceive, understand and value differences, to analyze and diagnose student learning, to negotiate and take risks in teaching, to have a depth of subject matter knowledge.

• M.Ed., Educational Administration, Northeastern State University
• B.Ed., Elementary Education, Oklahoma State University

Educational studies suggest that the essential qualities of good teachers include the ability to be self-aware of one's biases; to perceive, understand and accept differences in others; to analyze and diagnose student understanding and adapt as required; to negotiate and take risks in their teaching; and to have a strong conceptual understanding of their subject matter.

Most teachers are paid according to their experience and educational attainment, but as educator Thomas Luschei has demonstrated, there is little evidence that more than 3-5 years of experience boost teachers' ability to increase student test scores or grades. Other measurable attributes such as how well the teachers did on their qualifying examinations, or what level of education a teacher has attained also do not significantly impact the student's performance in classrooms.

So although there is little consensus in the education profession about which measurable features make a good teacher, several studies have identified inherent traits and practices which assist teachers in reaching their students.

American teacher-educator Stephanie Kay Sachs believes that an effective teacher needs to have a basic sociocultural awareness of and acceptance of their own and other's cultural identity. Teachers need to be able to facilitate the development of a positive self-ethnic identity and be aware their own personal biases and prejudices. They should use self-inquiry to examine the relationship between their fundamental values, attitudes, and beliefs, particularly with regard to their teaching. This inner bias affects all interactions with students but does not prohibit teachers from learning from their students or vice versa.

Educator Catherine Carter adds that an effective way for teachers to understand their processes and motivation is to define an apt metaphor for the role they perform. For example, she says, some teachers think of themselves as gardeners, potters shaping clay, mechanics working on engines, business managers, or workshop artists, supervising other artists in their growth.

Teachers who understand their own biases says Sachs, are in a better position to view their students' experiences as valuable and meaningful and integrate the realities of the students' lives, experiences, and cultures into the classroom and subject matter.

The effective teacher builds perceptions of her own personal influence and power over factors that contribute to student learning. In addition, she must build conceptual interpersonal skills to respond to the complexities of the school environment. The experiences of both teachers and students with individuals of differing social, ethnic, cultural, and geographic backgrounds can serve as a lens through which future interactions can be viewed.

Teacher Richard S. Prawat suggests that teachers must be able to pay close attention to student's learning processes, to analyze how students are learning and diagnose issues that prevent understanding. Assessments must be undertaken not on tests per se, but rather as the teachers engage students in active learning, allowing debate, discussion, research, writing, evaluation, and experimentation.

Compiling results from a report of the Committee on Teacher Education for the National Academy of Education, Linda Darling-Hammond and Joan Baratz-Snowden suggest teachers must make their expectations for high-quality work known, and provide constant feedback as they revise their work towards these standards. In the end, the goal is to create a well-functioning, respectful classroom that allows students to work productively.

Sachs suggests that building on the ability to perceive where students are failing to fully understand, an effective teacher must not be afraid to seek out tasks for herself and the students that are optimal for their skills and abilities, recognizing that those efforts may not be successful. These teachers are the pioneers and trailblazers, she says, individuals who are challenge-oriented.

Negotiation involves moving students in a certain direction, towards a view of reality which is shared by those in the disciplinary community. At the same time, teachers must recognize when some obstacles to such learning are misconceptions or faulty reasoning which need to be highlighted, or when a child is simply using her own informal ways of knowing which should be encouraged. This, says Prawat, is the essential paradox of teaching: to challenge the child with new ways of thinking, but negotiate a way for that student to not dismiss alternate ideas. Overcoming these obstacles must be a collaborative enterprise between student and teacher, where uncertainty and conflict are important, growth-producing commodities.

Particularly in the maths and sciences, educator Prawat stresses that teachers need to have rich networks of knowledge in their subject matter, organized around key ideas that could provide a conceptual basis for understanding.

Teachers obtain that by bringing focus and coherence to the subject matter and allowing themselves to be more conceptual in their approach to learning. In this manner, they transform it into something meaningful for students.

• Carter, Catherine. " Priest, Prostitute, Plumber? The Construction of Teachers as Saints. " English Education 42.1 (2009): 61–90. Print.
• Darling-Hammond, Linda, and Joan Baratz-Snowden. " A Good Teacher in Every Classroom: Preparing the Highly Qualified Teachers Our Children Deserve ." Educational Horizons 85.2 (2007): 111–32. Print.
• Goldhaber, Dan. "The Mystery of Good Teaching." Education Next Spring 2002 (2002): 1–5. Print.
• Luschei, Thomas F. " In Search of Good Teachers: Patterns of Teacher Quality in Two Mexican States. " Comparative Education Review 56.1 (2012): 69–97. Print.
• Prawat, Richard S. " Teaching for Understanding: Three Key Attributes ." Teaching and Teacher Education 5.4 (1989): 315–28. Print.
• Robinson, Richard, et al. " The Effective Teacher Revisited ." The Reading Teacher 45.6 (1992): 448–48. Print.
• Sachs, Stephanie Kay. " Evaluation of Teacher Attributes as Predictors of Success in Urban Schools. " Journal of Teacher Education 55.2 (2004): 177–87. Print.
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50+ Qualities of a Good Teacher (According to Experts)

Everyone has different opinions on what makes a good teacher, especially if you are a parent, student, or thinking of becoming one.

But what really makes a good teacher? What qualities do they possess? And how can one become a better educator?

According to experts, here are key qualities of a good teacher:

Ben Earwicker, Ph.D.

Educator | Founder and Mediator, Virtual Mediation

A good teacher adds something more to their educational training

The skills that good teachers share can be learned and developed over time. Teachers come in all shapes and sizes, but good teachers share a few common characteristics. 

Not surprisingly,  good teaching requires more than just a degree in education . It also requires a set of skills that go beyond classroom training. Great teachers take their educational training and add something more. 

What they add to their teaching elevates their teaching and enriches the classroom for their students.

As a professor and administrator who works with secondary teachers throughout the Pacific Northwest, I have worked with teachers who stood out from the rest because of their passion for teaching and commitment to their students. 

I’ve learned that truly great teachers tend to exhibit a common set of traits. 

Some of the best teachers out there share a: 

• Passion for teaching and learning
• Empathy for students
• A high degree of competence and knowledge in their field

Passion for teaching

Passion is essential for good teaching , whether you work with kindergarteners or graduate students. Passion is  infectious ; students know when their teacher is excited about a topic, and students catch that sense of excitement in their own learning. 

But the passion for teaching is  not  just some magical property that transforms the classroom.  Passion fuels creativity , which in turn creates  engaging , interesting , and  motivational  learning spaces. 

Passion is inspiring . But when passion is channeled into creative lesson planning and student learning activities, it can really help students engage and learn.

Related: Why Is Passion Important for Success in Life?

Passion for learning

Teachers are learners, too. And  good teachers never stop learning . As a first-generation college student, I discovered first-hand how transformative education could be. And I have never stopped learning, both formally and informally . 

Good teachers have an inquisitive, curious attitude toward life and education. Great teachers model life-long learning to their students, exploring and discovering alongside them. 

It’s easy for students to miss the fact that teachers are students, too. Good teachers are  not  only model learning. They intentionally use their own learning process to model good study habits and other essential learning skills.

Sometimes it’s easy to focus more on teaching units, lesson plans, and class content than on your students. All the pressures of teaching can overwhelm teachers, especially those new to the profession or trying to manage huge workloads. 

A good teacher has empathy for their students

The best teachers I’ve worked with never lose sight of the reason they wanted to get into teaching in the first place:  the students . 

Great teachers typically choose the teaching profession to:

• Make a difference in the lives of their students.
• Train the next generation of learners.
• Give back to society in specific, tangible ways. 

It’s easy to forget all of that, though, when it feels like there’s never enough time in the workday. Students invariably bring their own unique concerns and problems with them to class.

Many students may be  distracted ,  preoccupied , or otherwise focused on issues that are beyond the teacher’s control. 

They use discipline as a teaching tool to help students refocus and recenter

I’ve seen teachers overemphasize punishment and discipline because they didn’t take the time to figure out why a student was acting out in class. Good teachers use discipline as a teaching tool to help students  refocus  and  recenter . 

They commit to understanding where students are coming from and find creative ways to address student misconduct in ways that affirm the student and help the student improve. 

This approach to classroom management illustrates empathy and a truly student-centered approach to teaching. Great teachers use this empathetic approach to manage their classrooms and remind themselves of what motivated them to teach:  the students .

They commit to deep learning and knowledge of their subject matter

Good teachers demonstrate empathy and a passion for teaching. They are also subject matter experts in their field, with a high degree of competence and knowledge in their particular area of education. 

It’s great to be  passionate  and  empathetic , but good teachers also commit to deep learning and knowledge of their subject matter. 

This goes hand in hand with lifelong learning; great teachers always deepen their knowledge and expertise in their content area. 

Some of the best teachers I’ve worked with are relentless in their pursuit of knowledge:

• They go back to school
• Join professional organizations
• Research and write
• Spend time reading and investing in themselves and their areas of interest

Again, this learning and content knowledge approach inspires students and enriches their learning environment.

Related: How to Inspire Others

Good teachers stand out from their peers because they care deeply for their students, demonstrate a passion for education, and model learning in and out of the classroom. The traits of successful teachers can be learned and practiced over time . 

Being a good teacher means more than getting a degree and a position as an educator. It requires ongoing investment in learning, caring about students, and a passion for the profession.

Jeanette Teh, H.BSc., JD, MBA, ACC

Former Assistant Professor | Personal Development Coach, KSky Coaching

They connect with each student to get to know them personally 

At the start of each semester, I would ask students to introduce themselves, where they’re from (I taught university students in Dubai, where the population is comprised of 200 nationalities), their hobbies, and their college major.   

This enabled me (and their classmates): 

• To learn more about them.
• Relate to them on an individual basis.
• Establish a bond (e.g., I love to swim too!)
• Understand their motivation for taking a course and how they can apply it.
• Know their career goals as well as their personal and educational interests.

The students felt listened to and special when I used them as an example, e.g.,  “Say Sam is buying lunch after his Karate class and…”  This is also useful when Sam is distracted, and hearing his name immediately brings his attention back! 

They speak the same cultural or generational language as their students

Speak the same  “cultural or generational language”  as their students by being in tune with pop culture and things that matter to them. 

By getting to know the students, a teacher will be able to gauge what is of interest to them and can bring in examples that are meaningful to them, e.g., as quite a few students are interested in soccer, I brought FIFA into my lectures.

Since Business Law is a mandatory course, students pursuing accounting or marketing careers do  not  always understand why they are made to take this course until they directly link how important legal concepts are for an accountant or marketing professional.

We learn best when the content is meaningful and interesting to us. 

Law is  not  always the most scintillating of topics, but it was more interesting when I brought in celebrity lawsuits or explained how each time they buy a coffee, they are, in effect, part of a contractual relationship.

Students’ interest in the news was piqued when I talked about current corporate scandals to illustrate concepts in business ethics , which helped cultivate a practice of reading about world affairs.

Even where pop culture is not tied specifically to course content, it is always fun to bring in Beyonce or Taylor Swift in conversations with the students. 

It reduces the teacher-student barrier when they are better able to see and relate to their professor as a human being who shares their interests.

They understand the importance of active learning

A good teacher understands the importance of active learning and is multi-dimensional in using different teaching methods. Since everyone learns differently, not every student can absorb content from listening to lectures or reading text off the slides. 

It is essential to engage students with different learning abilities by having images ,  videos ,  music ,  active discussion , and  play .    

Great teachers understand that students learn best and are better able to retain information when they are active learners who are  not  just passively listening or reading.

Stopping after a major concept or chapter to ask the students to reflect on their learnings and write down their thoughts on how they can apply it to their everyday life helps consolidate their learning and makes it personally relevant to them, which will aid retention. 

Using the  Think-Pair-Share approach , we can have them discuss their thoughts with one another person and then share them with the class.

Having students discuss different case studies or concepts and teach them to the class is another excellent way to foster learning and presentation skills.

As I try to benefit from the wisdom of those smarter than I am, I would end each lecture with a quote related to the course topic. 

Some students found this  effective  way to relate to the content in a more thoughtful manner, especially since some quotes can evoke emotions, helping crystalize the learning and making it more meaningful.

Using role-playing (in a mock trial and a mock boardroom scenario with HR majors playing the role of HR, Finance students playing CFO, etc.) in my law and ethics courses was powerful in giving the students a taste of the  “real world”  and building confidence in their speaking skills while enabling them to apply the course concepts in a fun environment. 

Despite their initial hesitance with something foreign to them, all the students loved the experience. 

What was especially rewarding for an educator was seeing the less diligent students put in so much effort and the shy, reticent students flourish as they played their roles  passionately  and  confidently .

I’ve also used  mind mapping  in preparation for exams, which the students loved as they were able to draw and bring their creative side with colored pencils and boardgames (e.g., Taboo when teaching Business Communication).

While many educators lament mobile phones as a distraction in the classroom, they can be turned into a teaching tool by asking students to find information online or to take a live survey whose results can be broadcast to the class afterward.

They have fun and enjoy themselves on stage

Even with “less exciting” topics like law and even with traditionally more “serious” learners like lawyers (I used to train lawyers), we can always have fun and have a sense of humor in the classroom.

We can be professional and serious but still be friendly, have fun, and share funny anecdotes.

Students are more engaged and learn better when they see their teachers enjoying themselves. Perhaps more importantly, when teachers laugh and enjoy themselves in class, it brings  more  joy, meaning, and passion to their profession.

Iqbal Ahmad

Founder and CEO,  Britannia School of Academics

Great teachers always give the world great minds, and it is one of the most respectable professions worldwide, but what makes it worth that? Here are some of the qualities of great teachers as narrated by experts.

They maintain active communication with the student and the parent

Excellent and effective teaching always requires great communication skills on the first note. The great teacher always maintains active communication with the student and the parent to make a collaborative effort for the student’s welfare. 

They are great speakers, active listeners, readers, and writers

A great teacher is always a  great speaker ,  active listener ,  incredible reader , and wr iter. The diversity of tone and non-verbal clues (body language) also aids a lot in delivering ideas and concepts of different types and involving the students in the class dynamics. 

Related: Why is Body Language Important?

In addition, it is crucial to be  receptive  and  expressive  simultaneously for a teacher to identify the student’s problem areas and address them immediately. 

Communication with parents is also needed to give them feedback and make them aware of any further improvements needed ( Silver F., 2018 ).

They must be flexible or adaptable to different working situations

Another essential quality of a great teacher is  adaptability . A great teacher must always be flexible or adaptable to different working situations, students, learning, colleagues, and parents. 

Any teacher can suffer from burnout or frustration without adaptability because they have to teach enormous types of personalities within a class and work in different situations simultaneously. 

They are capable of answering the questions of gifted students

Moreover, the same teaching style in every class and with every student can  never be an effective way for a teacher. 

They have to deal with the students with learning disabilities and prove themselves capable of answering the questions of gifted students with extraordinary intellectual needs.

They meet the needs of the upgradation of knowledge

Furthermore, a great teacher always has to meet the needs of the upgradation of knowledge and professional learning. Hence, rigidity or a stuck mind in the way of learning can prove fatal for a teacher’s professional development and growth. 

Effectively interacting with colleagues and parents of different backgrounds and cultures also requires adaptability ( Collie R J., 2017 ).

They are always empathetic to the students

Empathy is also a vital trait of great teachers. A great teacher is always empathetic to the students, their circumstances, and perspectives, which is crucial in maintaining the classroom environment positive and healthy. 

For example, a student doing  not  so good in studies might be facing any trauma or going through a family crisis. At that point, an empathetic teacher might provide emotional support for that kid and help them with guidance in dealing with such trauma. 

However, it must be kept in mind that empathy never means showing sympathy. Instead, it enables an individual to come out of personal judgment and biases and see the person’s circumstances through their eyes ( Morin A., n.d ).

Related: Compassion vs Empathy vs Sympathy. What’s the Difference?

They must support the intellectually challenged students patiently

Another essential trait on the list is patience.  Patience ,  humility , and  calmness  are much required to become a great teacher, so the hesitance of students struggling in studies can be alleviated.

A great teacher praises not only the brilliant students but also tries to support the intellectually challenged students patiently. 

They have to provide mentorship to the weak students irrespective of how many times they need to explain and continues to struggle until all the student in the class master the concept with patience and persistence ( Iverson B., n.d ).

Moreover, it is never the action of wise for a teacher to take the student’s conduct in class personally. For example, some students conduct could be very unpleasing or disturbing towards their peers or teachers. Patience is the utmost need for the teacher in that situation. 

Although sometimes it is difficult to be not combative in response to misconduct. However, they always show patience while interacting with such kids and use behavior modification and positive reinforcement techniques to improve the pupils’ conduct and morale in the classroom. 

The practice of patience can ultimately strengthen the relationship between the pupils and the teachers ( Bridges D., 2021 ).

They share good practices and ideas with colleagues and students

Another attribute of being a great teacher, according to experts, is sharing good practices and ideas with colleagues and students. 

Therefore, one of the teaching profession’s essential practices to learn and enhance their professional development is sharing their techniques and asking for feedback when sitting with colleagues. 

This practice can help eradicate the flaws in their teaching style and can be a source of generating innovative ideas regarding the welfare of the students and making learning easy for them. 

Therefore, teaching can be best done by making it collaborative and sharing best practices and ideas ( Spencer B., 2017 ).

Sharing good practices with students illustrates helping students solve their problems by sharing teachers’ experiences and successful practices related to them. The students get inspiration from their teachers by seeing them as mentors and leaders. 

They always look upon their teacher’s advice whenever they face any complex circumstances in their lives. Therefore, these good practices aid the pupils in learning and solving complex problems of life ( Patzer R., 2020 ).

They prevent boredom in class and inculcate students’ interest in learning

Some other qualities of great teachers are being  creative ,  humorous ,  enthusiastic , and  engaging . These qualities prevent boredom in class and inculcate students’ interest in learning. Humour is something that works every time and everywhere. 

The classroom environment becomes  engaging  and  exciting  when the teacher is creative enough to put humor into learning concepts and mathematical solutions. It also creates the student’s willingness to come to school and learn. 

Related: 20 Best Books to Jumpstart Your Creativity

They find a new and creative way to teach

A great teacher never sticks to the traditional way of teaching but always finds a new and creative way to teach by coming to the understanding level of each learner. This practice makes them the most popular and favorite teachers at school ( Vallikat, 2020 ).

They are optimistic

Optimism is also a crucial trait in becoming a great teacher. Many researchers have proved that teachers’ optimism can increase the productivity of the pupils’ results, no matter their background or circumstances. 

In addition, it can increase self-actualization and self-efficacy in an individual. When these traits are present in a teacher, they can inculcate them in their pupils. Which ultimately increases the confidence and urge to be able to do anything in this world ( Barile, n.d ).

They are punctual and organized

Lastly, being punctual and organized can prove to be the last hammer in the qualities of a great teacher. The organization in the classroom, lesson delivery, and pupils’ behavior are vital to an effective classroom environment. 

The teacher’s punctuality inspires the student to value time, and ultimately, they can effectively manage time. 

In addition, being organized and punctual led to fewer discipline problems in the classroom ( Kelly, 2020 ). 

Related: How to Be More Organized  

Emily Palacios

Professor, Cycle Chats | Podcast Host, “Cycle Chats”

They create a safe and judgment-free environment for students

In my experience as a teacher, the first thing I do for my students is set up a classroom that is a safe and judgment-free environment. I want my students to know that mistakes happen — even I make mistakes. 

Once my students understand they are safe, they are ready to embark on their education journey without fear.

A good teacher understands that they are not perfect

Another quality of a good teacher is someone who understands they are  not perfect, and as the world continues to grow, evolve, and change, so must they. 

I look at myself as a forever student. I am constantly learning on the job, learning from my students, and learning from myself. This allows teachers to have humility, we don’t know all the answers, and we shouldn’t pretend like we do,  “I don’t know”  is one of the most powerful things you can say. 

A good teacher has the ability to pivot

As I tell my students all the time, I can prepare for class as much as I would like, but honestly never quite know what will happen because I don’t know their answers, reactions, and questions on the material. 

If I didn’t have the ability to pivot, my students would be trapped in a learning environment that may  not  work for them. Pivoting allows me to color outside the lines so that I know my students understand the material. 

A good teacher listens to their students

Another crucial trait of a good teacher is listening to their students. This is so crucial because I always say I am more than a teacher. I am, at some points, a guidance counselor or spirit guide. 

We listen  not  only with our ears but with our heads. 

We are responsible for our students in the classroom and their well-being outside the classroom. Teachers can make positive change; they can make an impact. We just have to pay attention to what our students are saying. 

Related: 50+ Reasons Why Listening Is Important

A good teacher has respect for their students

The last quality I believe makes a good teacher is a respect. I tell my students on the first day of class that I will give them respect, but respect is a two-way street. 

Respect is such a huge thing I give my students because I believe in our society, people are disrespected all the time, so if I can show my students something new, then we are off to a good start. 

Students crave respect from their teachers, but a lot of time, teachers talk down to students or make them feel less than them, and I think that does a huge disservice to the relationship between teacher and student. 

If I set my respect and expectations high, I find that my students rise to the occasion. Being a good teacher can change the course of someone’s life. 

We must take that opportunity and hold it close, respect it, learn with it, and continue to ask ourselves,  “Why did I want to be a teacher?”

Related: Why Become a Teacher? 40+ Reasons According to Teachers

Chloe Daniel

Tutor,  My Tutor Source

Teachers are just like candles that burn and strive to illuminate students’ lives! True to these words,  teaching is not just a profession; it’s a responsibility . 

A responsibility to create a wise generation for a better tomorrow. Truth be told, a wise generation  cannot  be built without good teachers! 

Now let’s shed some light on the qualities of a good teacher. A few are listed below:

A good teacher treats his/her students with kindness

Students love kind teachers. When I was in 6th grade, I literally attended my Math class just because of my lovely Math teacher (however, the subject  “Math”  itself was torture for me). 

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Every Friday, she distributed chocolates to the best performers, which got me to work harder and harder every day. Ultimately, I ended up with an A in Mathematics!

Moral of the story : kind teachers can do wonders! With kindness, you can inspire your students to work hard.

Related: 30+ Reasons Why Kindness Is Important

A good teacher avoids discrimination

Students must feel good around their teachers. However, if instructors keep criticizing their students just because of their poor scores or racial background, they’re more likely to ruin the future generation. 

Remember, treating every student equally is  mandatory  if you’re serious about building a wise generation.

A good teacher encourages students to beat procrastination 

Believe it or not, procrastination can kill your students’ productivity. Much worse? They might fail exams. 

As a teacher, you can help your students fight procrastination by designing interactive activities that are more student-centered than teacher-centered. You can also set a reward system for encouraging them to complete the tasks on time.

Related: How to Avoid Procrastination and Laziness

A good teacher motivates students to materialize their dreams

What use of a teacher if he fails to inspire their students to work hard? Here is the bitter truth. Instructors and teachers who are just delivering lectures over lectures to their students are doing  no good . 

Teachers should set long-term goals not only to improve students’ academic scores but also to nourish their skills and boost their motivation.

During my teaching career, I’ve seen generations transform into devils because of  corrupt  and  terrible  teachers. Hence, every teacher should work hard to develop these qualities. After all, our nation’s youth is in their hands!

Beth McCarter

Teacher | Educational Consultant, The Travel Fam

A good teacher must meet every student’s emotional and educational needs

A good teacher must meet every student’s emotional and educational needs in their classroom. In upper levels, they may have a roster of over 200 kids. 

These students are traumatized from loss during the pandemic,  gun violence , online bullying , and  unrealistic academic expectations . 

A good teacher must have the psychological bandwidth

A good teacher must have the psychological bandwidth to serve their students without themselves emotionally breaking down. That’s a tall order because teachers are struggling financially, emotionally, and physically with the toll of teaching the U.S.

A good teacher must be selfless

Giving up personal time and money to  nurture ,  strengthen , and  inspire  their students. Teachers across the U.S. decorate their rooms to fit school’s expectations at personal expense to the tune of hundreds of dollars a year. 

When a child comes to school without a snack, the teacher provides it. This disparity in school and teacher provision will only increase with the end of free school lunches.

A good teacher must have nerves of steel

They must be prepared to jump in the line of fire in the case of an active shooter. They must sacrifice their health to teach in schools where COVID numbers are high. 

They are literally the front line of defense for our nation’s children—all without the support of the national or state government.

Why is it hard to find a good teacher?

A good teacher makes all the difference in a child’s and parent’s life , but it has become increasingly harder to find working in the classroom. The political and cultural climate across the U.S. has pushed teachers into a scapegoat role. 

Teachers are blamed for political issues for which they have no control. Examples include  book banning ,  trans and gay rights ,  gun violence ,  free lunch , and other hot-button topics. 

It has become increasingly difficult for a teacher to focus on actually teaching. 

There’s also a deficit of certified and qualified teachers throughout the U.S. One of the reasons that a good teacher is hard to find is because they’re leaving the classroom emotionally exhausted . 

We’re tired. Tired of supplying the backbone to the economy. Tired of being blamed for failing national averages. Tired of sustaining the qualities required to be a  “good teacher”  in the United States.

Sean Michael Morris

VP of Academics, Course Hero

A good teacher trusts their students

It is essential that teachers focus on building trust with students. In a world where cheating can be an easy option, students are less likely to choose that path when they trust their teachers. And when students trust those around them, they are more likely to  grow  and  learn . 

I was an educator for 20 years, and in all of those years, I had one student who cheated by plagiarizing a poetry assignment for a creative writing class. 

I believe in upgrading, so my initial response was  not  to fail him but to understand why he did what he did. Instead, I approached him after class and asked him what had happened to get to the root cause. 

Because I made an effort to find out what was happening in his life, I broke down a barrier between us and built a trusting relationship. Instead of taking the path of disgracing or failing him, I reminded him that I could be flexible on deadlines and that the work was what counted in the end. 

They ensure that every student gets the same quality education

New teachers often inherit the curriculum and pedagogies of their predecessors, particularly at the college level. As you evolve your teaching practice, it’s essential to question what you know and  not  always assume what you were taught is the right way to teach your students. 

In my first year as a teacher, I was handed a syllabus and instructed to follow it precisely —  textbook ,  readings ,  lectures , etc. 

While this teaching method is meant to standardize the curriculum so that every student receives the same education, I realized this type of teaching was mechanical and didn’t encourage the students to be curious, ask questions and share their voices with the class. 

I immediately tossed out the syllabus and created my own curriculum, setting a different tone and pace for the class that I felt was better suited to help them learn the subject matter. The traditional way of teaching is not always the best for the student. 

The second you start to question what you know, your lectures begin to shift, and the way you teach changes. You’ll soon find that teaching becomes an experience  not  just for the teacher but for the students as well.

A good teacher collaborates with students

It’s essential to think about teaching  not  as something you’re doing at students or to students but with them. 

Collaborating with students can look like many different things, and it’s important to recognize this at any given point. In one class, I had a student who was the only person of color. Several weeks into the course, I noticed she wasn’t participating. 

She eventually reached out and apologized for her lack of involvement but also gently explained that she felt ostracized in a class full of white people talking about  diversity , inclusion , and equity . 

She expressed that as a woman of color, she was surrounded by a lot of students who did  not  understand or experience inequity. I realized I needed to learn from my students, and I was presented with an opportunity to collaborate with one of them. 

The outcome of her coming forward resulted in her final project consisting of a bibliography of resources that she felt were more important than the ones I had included in the class syllabus. 

I included those in my resources for the following semesters with her permission. From that experience, knowledge came into play. As a teacher, it’s essential to ask yourself, what kind of knowledge can you produce together?

Mark Hemming

Teacher and Teacher Trainer, Libra Translation

A good teacher creates a stress-free environment

It might be often overlooked, but the best teachers are those who can instantly put their students at ease. As a known fact that a stress-free environment is a key factor for students to provide their best performance. 

It makes sense — would you tell a story better amongst a group of close friends or in front of 1000 people you’ve never met? Teachers that do this well have a calm, welcoming demeanor and encourage everyone to participate, especially shyer students. 

This can be facilitated either directly by asking students open-ended questions to elicit their opinions and conjectures or indirectly by appearing approachable and friendly enough to encourage everyone in the classroom to open up and voice their ideas.

A good teacher turns the tables to keep the focus away from the front

Historically, teaching has always been led from the front, with one person taking on a  “lecturer”  role and the class intently listening and perhaps answering one or two questions throughout the lesson. 

The drawback with this approach is that students fit into a passive role and might even be tempted to tune out entirely rather than follow the teacher’s points. 

The best teachers turn the tables to keep the focus away from the front and the rest of the room. 

They elicit examples from a particular topic that students already know

Instead of presenting the different types of triangles in mathematics, a good teacher would elicit examples of triangle types that students already know. 

This involves students fully in the learning process and lets them feel good about any knowledge they contribute to the example. 

They use group work as their tool of choice

In a one-hour group lesson of 30 students, a participant might only talk for one minute, answering a single question during a  “led-from-the-front”  lesson. 

If the lesson was conducted mostly in groups or tables of three students with a set of tasks to solve as a group, the same student might talk for 10-15 minutes during the same session. 

Excellent teachers also listen well and ask the right questions to keep the discussion going , providing a focus that is on the students rather than the teacher.

Beverly Gearreald

College Counselor and Community Manager,  Transizion

A good teacher knows what they teach

As a career mentor, it’s essential for me to recognize my limitations. I don’t know much about being a lawyer, and I shouldn’t pretend I do. 

I learned this lesson from my high school biology teacher, who didn’t know much about biology despite being a lovely person. He was a PE teacher substituting for the regular teacher on sabbatical, and it showed. 

A teenager that I was at the time, I didn’t cut him much slack. However, he did teach me the far more valuable life lesson of respecting the boundaries of my own knowledge. 

A good teacher takes time to get to know their students

My best teachers took the time to get to know me as a person and mentor me beyond the requirements of their subject.

I had an English teacher point out that I needed to learn to gracefully slow down for others. My calculus teacher helped me see that I needed to take well-intentioned criticism better. 

The list goes on, but the central point remains teachers who got to know me as a person and helped me work on my character, not just knowledge, remain some of the best teachers I’ve ever had.

A good teacher is patient

Guiding students is  repetitive . Whether teaching the same subject yearly or helping a single student grasp a concept,  patience is the key . 

If you’re a good teacher, you’re already an expert in a subject, and so it takes patience to content yourself with repeatedly returning to the basics to help other minds grasp them. 

Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer, Sam Villa | Global Artistic Ambassador for Redken

They understand what it means to deliver and absorb information

To value education, a teacher must understand what it means to deliver and absorb information. Learning is continuous throughout our lives and has endless possibilities for discovery. Educational experiences must be learner-focused. 

They understand that each learner is unique in meaningful ways

A good teacher understands that each learner is unique in meaningful ways with potential and a desire to learn, and they have the ability to unleash that desire. 

An example would be questioning skills, as questions are life’s greatest resource for learning, and the answer is always in the room. Listening skills are a must as a teacher must listen to understand versus listening to be understood. 

They are a nonjudgmental listener

A good teacher is a nonjudgmental listener and takes the responsibility of delivering information without personal opinions that may cloud the learning experience. Learner-focus teaching requires focusing on the student’s needs versus the content’s importance. 

They plant seeds of information and practices patience

A good teacher plants seeds of information and practices patience as these seeds take root. They are  selfless  and  supportive , spending countless hours dedicated to the student. 

No matter the subject, Hair to Geometry, History to Fashion, Science to Astrology, all good teachers have one thing in common —  they are lifelong learners . 

As teachers, we must never cease to learn. This is what fuels the desire to invest in and reshape people in such a way that helps them become more than what they think they are. To help others expand their realities and pass on what they have learned. 

They give learners the ability to choose

With a big heart and integrity, a good teacher embodies the past , present , and future by giving the learners tools, skills, and the ability to choose. 

In our company’s culture, these are some of the things we strive for and look for from each other and our teachers. We are continuously committed to the growth of others. 

As an educator/teacher, it is the legacy I want to leave for present and future generations.  Share ,  care , and grow .

Being a lifelong facilitator of education to salon professionals has been the heart and soul of my existence, and I will continue to stand before my students, motivated by my passion for teaching.

Peter Dufresne, Ph.D.

Chief Academic Officer, Knovva Academy

They are open to many different styles of learning 

They are  empathetic  and  understanding  to all students, including those who need to learn in different ways than others. 

My experience as a teacher and administrator has led me to have the opportunity to serve as a principal at both large and small schools, as a curriculum director, and as an acting superintendent. 

This experience has taught me all about the best qualities educators can have to positively impact students. 

They help students succeed by setting achievable goals

The best teachers help students succeed by setting achievable goals and giving them positive feedback along the way. They are role models who inspire students to learn, no matter their style. 

They encourage various learning routes

Good teachers also recognize opportunities on students’ behalf and encourage various learning routes, such as online supplemental work or unique student programs like our Model G20 program. 

Our academy is an educational institution that guides students into their dream colleges through live online classes , tutoring, and counseling. Our Model G20 program is an opportunity for hundreds of students across the world to meet and discuss economic issues.  

Rosalina Oliva

Life Coach and Student Services Advisor,  Oxford Learning College

A good teacher adapts based on the preferred learning styles of the students

While every teacher will bring something different to the table, there are some qualities that separate the best from the rest.

Those that really stand out have the ability to adapt based on the personalities and preferred learning styles of the students. They create  fun  and  engaging learning experiences, ensuring the inclusion of pupils at all academic levels.

These traits are shared by the best teachers:

• The ability to communicate at the students’ level while remaining professional.
• Listening and observing any issues that the students might have.
• A passion for learning and integrating the most effective practices.
• Natural empathy and understanding of issues beyond the classroom.
• Making learning relevant to the interests of today’s students.

Think about the teachers that you remember for the right reasons. Were they the ones who stuck rigidly to the curriculum and showed a lack of tolerance? Or were they approachable and obviously focused on your best interests?

Dr. Andrew Ward, MS, MEd, PhD

Visiting Assistant Professor, Tulane University | Founder, International High School of New Orleans

A good teacher fosters a diverse community of lifelong learners

I have found that the qualities of a good teacher are predominantly:

• Enthusiasm – If the teacher is passionate about the material, the students will be as well.
• Creativity – Everyone learns differently. The teacher must endeavor to make the material as accessible as possible in multiple ways simultaneously to all sorts of different students. Everyone benefits from learning how to learn in new ways.
• Curiosity – Good teachers learn a lot about their subject area and sadly often rest on their laurels. Great teachers never stop learning — always casting the net of knowledge wider and deeper and coming up with ever-more nuanced understandings.
• Compassion – School is not, nor should it ever be boot camp. Students bring their life experiences to every lesson. A wise teacher should not ignore or decry those experiences but rather make every effort to understand them and incorporate them into the learning plan.

Isabela Calil

Higher Education Consultant,  TEG London

They set their students up for success in the real world

A good teacher should be able to set their students up for success in “the real world” by providing them with important life lessons that happen both inside and outside of the classroom. They do this by teaching skills like  empathy , adaptability , and  being truthful  with students when applicable. 

I feel there’s this notion that teachers should caudle their students and  not  step on the toes of parents, which to some degree is true. 

However, it helps to have an adult outside your personal life who can teach you lessons on how to conduct yourself outside the classroom. 

They should be good at building leaders

Teachers should be good at building leaders and listening to their students when they have important feedback. They should also be able to teach in a way that is accessible to everyone, taking into consideration all the different styles of learning. 

This means listening to their students’ suggestions and being able to take notes when one of them might be struggling. It helps to ask your students how they best learn and create a plan that can cater to their needs within reason.

Scott Winstead

Education Technology Expert | Founder,  My eLearning World

A good teacher lights the fire of learning in their students

A great teacher is someone who lights the fire of learning in their students. They possess a deep knowledge of their subject area and can communicate that knowledge  clearly  to their students. 

They create a supportive and positive learning environment where  all  students feel comfortable taking risks and exploring new ideas. 

A good teacher challenges their students to reach their full potential

Great teachers also have high expectations for their students and challenge them to reach their full potential. They provide constructive and encouraging feedback, and they are constantly growing and adapting as educators. 

Above all, great teachers truly love what they do and feel a deep sense of responsibility for the future success of their students.

Jordyn Mastrodomenico

Clinical Director,  ChoicePoint

A good teacher is responsible for creating a whole nation of people who will grow into great adults. 

Here are some of the qualities of a good teacher:

A good teacher is an empath

A good teacher should realize that  not  every child comes from a stable and loving home environment. Some children are neurodivergent and require  special attention. This is one of the main reasons why children begin to lag in school. 

A child might start getting poor grades, might dissociate during classes, and sometimes teachers might notice behavioral changes. 

It’s important not to get aggressive in front of the entire class. Instead, schedule a meeting with parents and discuss the child’s progress with them.

A good teacher is a good listener 

All children don’t think the same way but have equally amazing ideas.  To make children listen to you, you have to set an example by being a good listener . It will enable these students to have good communication skills in the future. 

Here’s an example, when a student asks a question in front of other students, give yourself a few seconds to consider your response so that you can genuinely concentrate on what the child has to say so that they feel important and understood.

A good teacher knows how to self-reflect

A good teacher  always  knows how to self-reflect. The capacity for self-reflection, which may result in academic achievement as well as self-acceptance, allows a person to consider their own  needs ,  wants , and  interests . 

For example, students are more likely to engage in the same self-reflection level when teachers reflect on their strengths and flaws.

Kathleen Fletcher

CEO,  Kitty Baby Love

A good teacher exhibit their passion for what they do

The first and most important quality a teacher must exhibit is a passion for what they do. You can be a great communicator and be the loveliest person around, but if you do  not  truly enjoy your work, you will never be a great teacher. 

A passionate teacher’s enthusiasm for their subject or whatever they are teaching quickly starts to rub off on their students, whereas students will soon pick up on a lack of enthusiasm from their teachers. 

If your teacher isn’t passionate about a subject, why should the student be? It gives the impression to students that a given subject isn’t worth learning about. 

Following closely behind a genuine passion for your work, traits that the best teachers all demonstrate are  humanity  and  empathy . 

How can you expect to be able to teach a group of people something if you don’t understand them? 

As an art therapist, this is something I feel particularly strongly about. It’s only when you put yourselves in your students’ shoes and understand them intimately that you can work out how they might best respond to your teaching.

A good teacher exhibit a broad spectrum of emotions

I say humanity, too, because I think it is vital that teachers exhibit a broad spectrum of emotions in front of their students. 

There can be a tendency for teachers to become somewhat  robotic , especially when they are repeatedly delivering the same lessons. 

This is understandable, but it’ll stop you from becoming a great teacher. You might think it unprofessional to exhibit your emotions in front of your students, but it can be an incredibly powerful learning experience. 

If you’re teaching about some great tragedy that genuinely saddens you, shedding a tear can convey the importance of studying the event and learning about it better than a textbook ever could. 

Elena Zimmerman

Former Teacher | Content Writer,  Love & Lavender

As a former teacher of many years and a seemingly constant student of languages myself as an adult, I can confidently say that a good teacher makes all the difference. And a bad one can be  crushing .

A good teacher needs to be flexible

Above all, a good teacher needs to be  flexible . There is no  “standard student,”  and even if there is an average or a norm, it constantly changes as the world changes around us. 

Some people may find this exhausting, but personally, it was one of my favorite parts of the job. 

A constantly changing job with new challenges is engaging and breaks the monotony and boredom of doing the same thing, following the same career, for years on end. 

I think, not coincidentally, I was considered by most to be a good teacher and had excellent relationships overall with my school, students, and teachers.

A good teacher listens and observes

A good teacher also needs to  listen  and  observe . Children are  not  always capable of communicating what they need, what they are having trouble with, or what they want, especially in front of their peers. 

A good teacher needs to find a way to give students an opportunity and outlet to communicate and ask leading questions (and ask questions in the first place!) vs. open-ended ones. 

Example: 

• “Is there anything you find confusing?”  
• “Are there any points you would like to have explained again?”
• “What is your least favorite part of this text/question/problem/assignment?”  
• “Do you have any questions?” 
• “Does everyone understand?” 

Helping students to communicate and listen to what they say is an essential element of any good teacher.

Frequently Ased Questions

Can anyone become a good teacher.

While some people may have a natural talent for teaching, anyone can become a good teacher with the right training and support. Some tips for becoming a good teacher include:

• Get the proper education and training : Most teachers have a bachelor’s degree in education or a related field, as well as a teaching certificate or license. It’s important to choose a program that provides hands-on experience and training in teaching methods.

• Seek out mentorship and support : Experienced teachers can provide valuable guidance and support as you navigate the challenges of teaching. Joining a professional organization or seeking out a mentor can help you develop your skills and grow as a teacher.

• Stay up-to-date with the latest research and trends : The field of education is constantly evolving, and it’s important to stay informed about new teaching methods, technologies, and research in your subject area.

• Practice active listening and empathy : Students will appreciate a teacher who listens to their concerns and shows empathy for their struggles. Practice active listening and respond to your students in a way that shows you understand their perspective.

• Continuously reflect and improve : Reflecting on your teaching practices and seeking feedback from students and colleagues can help you identify areas for improvement and grow as a teacher.

How can a teacher inspire students to learn?

A good teacher can inspire students to learn by:

• Creating a positive learning environment : Students are more likely to be engaged and motivated when they feel safe, supported, and valued in the classroom. Create a positive learning environment by setting clear expectations, establishing routines, and encouraging positive interactions between students.

• Connecting the curriculum to real-life experiences : Students are more likely to be engaged and motivated when they can see the relevance of what they are learning to their lives outside the classroom. Make connections between the curriculum and real-life experiences to help students understand the practical applications of what they are learning.

• Providing opportunities for active learning : Students are more likely to remember and understand concepts when they are actively engaged in the learning process. Provide opportunities for active learning, such as group projects, hands-on activities, and discussions.

• Encouraging curiosity : A good teacher encourages curiosity and a love of learning by fostering a sense of wonder and encouraging students to ask questions. They provide opportunities for students to explore their interests and passions and encourage them to take ownership of their own learning.

• Providing constructive feedback : Students need feedback to understand their strengths and areas for improvement. A good teacher provides constructive feedback that is specific, timely, and actionable. They help students set goals and provide guidance on how to achieve them.

• Being a positive role model : Teachers are role models for their students, and a good teacher sets a positive example by demonstrating a love of learning, a growth mindset, and a commitment to their own professional development.

• Celebrating success : A good teacher celebrates the success of their students and recognizes their achievements. They provide positive reinforcement and encourage students to take pride in their accomplishments.

• Building relationships : A good teacher builds strong relationships with their students based on trust, respect, and empathy. They take the time to get to know their students as individuals and show a genuine interest in their lives and experiences.

By incorporating these strategies, a teacher can inspire their students to learn and help them achieve their full potential.

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What makes a good teacher?

What are the qualities of a good teacher? Useful tips & resources

There’s no doubt about it: teaching is hard work. Some teachers are able to rise above it to deliver consistently great lessons, forging strong relationships with colleagues and pupils alike. Others struggle in their role and only seem to do the bare minimum. What makes a good teacher? While the answer may vary depending on one’s learning style, there are certain qualities of a good teacher which ring true.

Knowledge of subject matter

One of the first characteristics of a good teacher is a keen interest in their chosen subject matter and a passion for continuous learning -  we discuss this further here.  When a teacher has a love for his or her subject, it shines through. This helps inspire interest in students, who pick up this enthusiasm. Think about it: knowledgeable teachers also have a wider bank of subject material to turn to in order to tailor the lesson to their individual students. Good teachers not only work with their existing knowledge, but strive to stay on top of the latest research in their field. This helps them make the subject come alive for pupils.

You can boost your own subject knowledge by taking an  online CPD course . Another option is to use social media to stay on top of the latest trends – check what’s trending on Twitter using subject-specific hashtags like  #mathchat  or  #asechat . If you’re just starting out, try visiting the new teacher chat or  #ntchat .

We offer a wide range of CPD courses, to find out which one is right for you,  visit our page.

Classroom Skills

Enthusiasm alone isn’t enough to make someone a good teacher. Good teachers also have the training necessary to deliver lessons in the most effective manner. They should know the ins and outs of classroom resources, know how to mark student work, be able to write up accurate reports, and know how to deal with disciplinary issues. An effective teacher tries to spark discussion, framing facts in such a way as to lead their students to look at the issue from all sides. This includes engaging the whole class, not just the most talkative pupils.

High expectations for students

A great teacher sets high expectations in the classrooms to help students reach their full potential. They set standards of mutual respect, so that pupils know that substandard work or behaviour will be noticed and responded to. Good teachers believe that every student has the ability to learn, and are willing to push them to do their best.

Excellent planning skills

Effective teaching involves a great deal of planning and organisation. Good teachers put in the effort to prepare their lessons thoroughly. Lesson planning helps manage student expectations, so that they know exactly what their obligations are. The grading policy should be clear, as should assignments and objectives. Part of what makes a good teacher is the ability to stay organised, maintaining accurate records and keeping track of individual student strengths and weaknesses. Clear expectations help keep the whole classroom stay on task. It’s useful to brush up on the  National Curriculum  every now and again.

Create a sense of community

It’s not all stuffy paperwork, rules, and task lists. Desirable qualities of a teacher also include the ability to form strong relationships with their students. Teachers are often warm, caring, and open individuals, who help students feel comfortable in the classroom. Students should feel safe to share their ideas in a supportive learning environment. What distinguishes mediocre teachers from good ones is the ability to create this sense of belonging.

Social media is once again a useful tool for teachers looking for ways to bond with students. Check out  Pinterest  for  morale-boosting activities , or ask for ideas via Twitter.

Adaptability

No two days are the same in teaching, and students can be unpredictable. If a lesson isn’t working, or there is a disciplinary problem, a good teacher is able to shift gears when necessary. Flexibility is one of the major characteristics of good teachers.

Communication Skills

There’s a great deal of communication involved with effective teaching. Part of what makes a good teacher stand out is the ability to get messages across in lessons. However, the best teachers also are able to spark connections with students on a personal level. They must be able to communicate regularly with parents, with conferences and written reports alike. If there are problems in the classroom, a good teacher will reach out to the parents by phone or email to discuss the issues. A good teacher has a collaborative spirit, working effectively with colleagues and taking on suggestion or criticism.

Any good  teacher training  course will put a strong emphasis on communication. This  Interpersonal Communication Skills Test  from Psychology Today is also a good jumping-off point to learn more about your own communication style.  

Some of these qualities come naturally to educators, but there are always areas for improvement. Teaching can be seen as a series of moving targets. Overall, a good teacher is one who is a lifelong learner.

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10 Qualities of a Good Teacher

A good teacher can make a world of difference in a student's life, impacting everything from their classroom learning to their long-term success. If you're considering a career in education – or looking to boost it with a Master of Education  (MEd) – it's important to explore the qualities of a good teacher.

Research from the Economic Policy Institute shows that good teachers are the single most important factor that contributes to student achievement in the classroom, more important than facilities, school resources and even school leadership.

A study from the American Economics Association (AEA) found that improvements in teacher quality positively impact everything from the quality of colleges students attend to students’ future salaries, the quality of their neighborhood and even their future participation rates in 401k savings plans ( AEA PDF source ).

So, What Makes a Good Teacher?

Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) education faculty and university students shared their thoughts on the qualities that make effective teachers stand out.

1. Good Teachers Are Strong Communicators.

Tanguay got his start as a high school math teacher and said that many students came to his class feeling afraid of math, discouraged by their prior experiences and too overwhelmed to approach the subject positively. 

By communicating with students at the beginning of the year about how math applies to their favorite hobbies, sports and future careers, Tanguay said his students were able to approach the subject in a more enjoyable way that better supported their learning.

“I’m a firm believer in communication in all forms,” he said. “As a leader, communication is a tool for overcoming fear.”

2. Good Teachers Listen Well.

Great communication doesn't stop when the teacher is done talking. Listening well is one of the most important skills needed to be a teacher. 

“Teachers that are skilled in listening and observing often pick up on what isn’t being said, such as any anxieties a student may have, and can then help the student build their skills and confidence levels," said student  Kristine Ducote , who is earning her bachelor's in criminal justice .

Student Latricia Maddox , who is studying for a bachelor's in business , said that effective listening skills also help a teacher better understand their students and tailor lessons to reach them how they learn best. 

“If an educator can truly hear a student, they can learn how to reach them where they are,” she said. “This will open the door for them to receive and learn the lesson that is being taught.”

3. Good Teachers Focus on Collaboration.

Working in education means you’re never truly working alone. From paraprofessionals and teaching assistants to other classroom teachers and school leaders, working as a teacher often means working effectively in a group. It's also important to keep an open mind and learn from other educators. 

The key to success in this kind of environment, Tanguay said, is the ability to collaborate. "You really need to be able to fill various roles in order to collaborate effectively," he said. "If you already have someone on your team who is going to be the one to critique all of the suggestions made, then you don't need to join in on that. Instead, maybe you need to be the person who is going to come up with creative ideas. You need to have that flexibility."

4. Good Teachers Are Adaptable.

Effective teachers need to be able to work in a constantly evolving environment and adjust their teaching methods based on the age of their students, the resources available and changing curriculum, practices and requirements.

As a teacher since the 1980s, SNHU education professor and on campus undergraduate program chairman Dr. Audrey Rogers said she’s seen tremendous changes in the education field throughout her career, particularly with the rise in access to the internet, computers and other technology. What is teaching going to look like in another 30 years? The only thing certain, Rogers said, is change.

“Change is a constant,” she said. “Learning how to adapt and adjust, that’s been one of the skills that’s been most helpful in my career. It’s about keeping my finger on the pulse of who my students are over time and all the trends, standards and new research, and being able to continually improve.”

Adaptability is also one of the key skills needed to be a teacher who may be educating students of varying grade levels or different learning styles, Tanguay said. 

“You have to be able to adapt based upon your audience,” he said. 

5. Good Teachers Are Engaging.

Being able to engage students with humor, creative lessons and a strong classroom presence is an important part of what makes someone a good teacher, Tanguay said. 

“If you were to envision that teacher that you would want in your life, even now, you’re going to want someone who is very engaging in front of the classroom,” he said. “A good teacher will perform for their students to keep them going... It’s not about sitting back and just lecturing, it’s about engaging in the work.”

What an engaging teacher looks like will vary depending on grade level and subject matter, Tanguay said. 

In kindergarten, an engaging teacher might be one who gets down on the floor to do activities with their students on their level. In high school, an engaging teacher may be one who thinks outside the box, adds humor to their lessons and finds creative ways to bring learning into the real world.

6. Good Teachers Show Empathy.

Another key to engaging students and improving their learning is to treat each student as an individual, by being empathetic and understanding to what may be going on in their lives, Tanguay said. 

“We need to take a moment to think back and think about what could be going on in this student’s life,” he said. “It’s so important to be observant, attentive, empathetic and always have a positive attitude.” 

“Something that may be easy for one student may not be so easy for someone else,” she said. “Everyone learns differently, whether it be faster or slower than normal, learns better by writing, reading or hands-on. Teachers need to always keep this in mind and always pay close attention to ensure each student is on the track they need to be.”

7. Good Teachers Have Patience.

No matter what grade level you're teaching, your patience will be tested while working as an educator.  

Whether you’re managing classroom behavior, working with colleagues with different views, or communicating student issues or progress with parents, patience is one of the most important skills to practice as a teacher. 

“More often than not you actually have to have more patience with the parents than you do with the students,” Tanguay said. “Parents are coming in with their perceptions of what happened to them when they were students or previous experiences that may have been detrimental to their child... You have to be patient and understanding of them.”

8. Good Teachers Value Real-World Learning.

Teachers who bring their students’ learning into the real world are often some of the most engaging. But it’s important for teachers to bring their own learning into the real world, too.

One of the best preparations for effective teaching is to ensure that education students get plenty of classroom experience early on in their degree programs, Rogers said.

For education majors  in SNHU's on campus program, this preparation includes embedded coursework that begins in a student's freshmen year. They spend time at a local school once a week to collaborate with teacher partners and apply their learning to the classroom. A year-long student teaching experience is also a powerful way to ensure soon-to-be teachers have the time to hone their teaching skills, Rogers said.

"Our students have that benefit of seeing the practical application (of) what they're learning in the moment they're learning it," she said.

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9. good teachers share best practices..

A willingness to share knowledge and experiences with others is one of the most important qualities of a good teacher, Rogers said. 

Education is a hands-on field and often requires experimentation within the classroom to discover which methods of communicating with students work best. Part of being an effective teacher is sharing your findings and best practices with others in the field, Rogers said.

“I always challenge my students to think, ‘What is your contribution?’” she said. “Are you brave enough to post on Twitter about your ideas on technology integration in the classroom? Your willingness to share your practice, to keep an open door, to be transparent and to be observed are an important part of your teaching.”

10. Good Teachers Are Lifelong Learners.

One of the key skills needed to be a good teacher is a dedication to continued education and a love of learning. 

Whether you’re learning more about your subject area, learning new methods of communication or even exploring how to bring more technology into your classroom, continuing to expand your own knowledge is key to expanding that of your students.

“Those dedicated to their subjects with a passion for learning make the best teachers," said student Jennifer Gardner , who is earning a bachelor's in mathematics . “They also need to have a desire to pass on that knowledge.” 

Ducote said it’s important for teachers to never feel as though they’ve learned it all, and to remain open to new experiences.

“No matter your education level, you can learn something from everyone you encounter, including fellow educators as well as students,” she said. “Being willing to continually add tools to your toolbox – even unconventional ones at times – will keep things new and exciting, as well as giving you excellent skills.”

Learn the Characteristics of Effective Teaching

If you’re interested in starting a career in education, it’s important to first focus on your own learning. Whether you’re seeking a bachelor's degree in education, an education master’s degree or even a Doctor of Education  (EdD), building a strong foundation of knowledge and real-world experiences is key to becoming a good teacher.

No matter where your career path takes you – whether to an elementary school, secondary school or even to the university level – your teaching can have a profound impact on the lives of students, and your education is the foundation for that work.

“Teachers make such a huge impact on their students’ lives,” said student Donna Whisman , who is earning her bachelor's in communication . “I believe that being a teacher is a very special gift, and those that have that gift make a positive, lasting impression on the lives of their students that can totally change the trajectory of their lives.”

Danielle Gagnon is a freelance writer focused on higher education. Connect with her on LinkedIn .

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11 qualities of a good teacher: How to improve in the classroom

Written by Elizabeth Exline

Reviewed by Pamela M. Roggeman , EdD, Dean, College of Education

At a glance

• Good teachers have a repertoire of soft skills such as communication, collaboration and a lifelong-learning mindset, which complement hard skills like classroom management.
• University of Phoenix offers a Bachelor of Science in Education , which prepares students for a teaching career in elementary education.
• The Master of Arts in Education at University of Phoenix prepares students for teacher licensure in elementary, secondary or special education as well as (in select states) K-12 principal licensure.

“The best teacher people say they ever had and their favorite teacher are not necessarily the same person. And that’s because, as an adult, you look back and you’re like, ‘What did I really learn?’”

This observation is from Pamela Roggeman, EdD, the dean of the College of Education at University of Phoenix (UOPX). Roggeman has spent her career in education, so she speaks from both personal and professional experience when she identifies this discrepancy.

While it might be tempting to seek to become someone’s favorite teacher, most see the value in being the best . Or the most effective. And that raises the question: Just what exactly are the qualities of a good teacher?

Change the future one classroom at a time. Explore online education degrees at University of Phoenix.

What makes a good teacher?

The answer, like teaching itself, is complicated and multifaceted. It involves more than implementing the right educational learning theories . Even getting a master’s in education doesn’t guarantee that someone will have the characteristics of a good teacher.

In fact, according to “ A Review of the Literature on Teacher Effectiveness and Student Outcomes ,” which was published in 2019 as part of the International Association for the Evaluation of Educational Achievement , even teacher experience and education can’t be directly tied to positive student outcomes.

Roggeman, however, has seen firsthand what works. Citing Maslow’s hierarchy of needs , she points out that teachers must create an emotionally and physically safe environment for students before students can learn.

“If a kid is feeling vulnerable in any way, shape or form, whether it be socially or academically … the kid will not be able to settle down and learn,” Roggeman says.

Creating a predictable environment for students is a necessary first step in that direction, Roggeman says, which ties into the teacher skills taught in UOPX’s online teaching degree program and elsewhere. Beyond that, there’s a host of soft skills Roggeman and others have identified as being integral to student success. Here is the shortlist for what makes a good teacher. 

A good teacher communicates clearly

Considering that a teacher’s job essentially boils down to sharing information, it’s not surprising that good communication tops the list of important teacher skills.

Depending on who you ask, this quality might go by a different name, like setting clear objectives or showing respect. But, at the end of the day, all of those practices depend on strong communication skills.

So, what does good communication entail exactly? It involves:

• Observing : Teachers need to pick up on nonverbal and verbal cues to understand when a student needs more help or a different approach.
• Listening : Communicating isn’t just talking. Good teachers listen to their students, both in what they say and how they behave.
• Using clear language : Teachers need to be able to read the room and use words and phrases that students can understand and relate to.

Jacquelyn Kelly, PhD, the associate dean of the College of General Studies at University of Phoenix, explains this concept of clear language within the context of turning theory into practice.

“Students need to feel that they belong in the class in order to be successful,” she says. “This is coming from a theory called academic self-concept, which we know is a leading predictor of student success in all disciplines. … Well, what does that mean? One strategy that might be used is language that sounds comfortable for students. Let’s not use highly technical language and highly academic formal language. Let’s try to use very comfortable social language.”

Communication, in other words, is a pivotal social skill whose importance was underscored during the virtual learning experiment precipitated by the pandemic. Roggeman points out that children are social learners, and positive, healthy social settings depend on good communication. (Of course, proven online teaching strategies help in virtual learning formats too!)

A good teacher creates ample opportunities to learn

Optimizing productivity in the classroom depends on creating plenty of time to study course content. Yes, this seems obvious. But consider your own experience at work. When interruptions eat into the day, it’s harder and harder to concentrate on the tasks at hand.

The same holds true for the classroom, where student interruptions (like messages at work) or even scheduled classroom management policies (like meetings at work) can wreak havoc on creating chunks of time for students to focus on a lesson.

As noted in “ A Review of the Literature on Teacher Effectiveness and Student Outcomes ,” there’s a “consistent relationship between student achievement and teacher behaviors (instructional time and instructional content). … The importance of instructional content has been recognized by national policymakers and has helped motivate standards-based reform.”

Building in time for learning opportunities relies on both organization and preparation, which are two related qualities of a good teacher.

A good teacher encourages students to take intellectual risks

One reason why Roggeman highlighted the importance of creating a safe learning environment is that learning requires students to step into unfamiliar intellectual territory.

“They have to take risks in front of others,” Roggeman points out. “Even with themselves, they have to battle cognitive dissonance: I’ve always thought this way. Now I have to think that way. Those things [create] inner turmoil.”

As a result, teachers rely heavily on empathy to help students navigate this experience. Teachers need to push at the right times and pull back at others, all while fostering a sense of community within the classroom. 

A good teacher appreciates the audience

There’s an adage that says elementary teachers enter the field because they love to teach while secondary teachers enter the field because they love their area of expertise. Whether that’s true is probably relative, but it touches on one characteristic Roggeman views as essential for being a good teacher: You have to enjoy the age of the kids you’re teaching.

“It ought to be fun to you,” she says. “Just because teaching is important work doesn’t mean that it needs to be heavy all the time. When it stops being fun, that’s when you need to tackle the richer job of figuring out what’s going on there.”

A good teacher values the intrinsic rewards of teaching

Another way to put it? Teaching is a labor of love.

“A lot of times [the intrinsic reward of teaching] is all you’re going to get,” Roggeman says. “You don’t often get recognition from anywhere external like your leaders. … It’s not like you’re going to be getting a lot of rewards, and you’re usually not going to get a bonus. Not that education should be this way, but most educators know what they are taking on and are doing it for the intrinsic reward.”

Luckily for teachers, those rewards are everywhere in the classroom. For example, a “reward” might be getting a student to understand a concept after trying multiple methods over days or weeks. It might just be a hug from a kindergartner. Whatever form it takes, the teacher-student connection motivates all great teachers.

“You’ll get it every day if you look for it, but you really have to stay connected to that [as what] really drives you and gets you excited,” Roggeman says. 

Education has undergone a lot of changes since 2020. Find out what’s next for the field in our blog!

A good teacher is a lifelong learner

“You have to have a serious dedication and desire for continuous growth and improvement,” Roggeman says. “And this is not necessarily the kind of growth or professional development you’re going to get from your school district. What I’m talking about here is you need to want to be better every single day.”

While teachers may trade in learning, it’s not a given that opportunities to learn and grow will fall into their laps. As with any profession, it’s easy to slip into a routine and gradually forget to cultivate your own growth.

What makes a good teacher stand apart, on the other hand, is seeking out those opportunities to learn . Roggeman, for example, changed her classes every year so that she never taught the same thing twice.

Teachers today might seek out like-minded groups on Facebook or Pinterest.

“If you don’t grow in the job,” Roggeman warns, “you will stagnate and burn out.”

A good teacher seeks collaboration

One perhaps unintended benefit of seeking out those learning opportunities is that they bring you into contact with people who share your interests. And that, Roggeman says, can help combat some of the isolation of teaching.

“Teachers who go the distance find their ‘crew,’” Roggeman observes. “Most of the time this group consists of fellow teachers within their schools, but it may also be through their professional association memberships or even in online groups. … The isolation that teachers feel from other adults needs to be combatted by the realization that like-minded colleagues exist — even if it’s not in your same building.”

Connecting with colleagues helps inspire teachers, whether that’s in person while sponsoring school groups as Roggeman did, or online in special interest groups on social media.

A good teacher knows how to adapt

There’s plenty of debate about whether experience makes a good teacher , but the better question may be whether adaptability plays a factor in student success.

Certainly, intuition would suggest that it does. And Roggeman’s experience bears this out. She recalls seeing young teachers arrive in the classroom through an organization that recruited high-achieving college graduate students to serve as teachers in underserved communities.

Those teachers, Roggeman recalls, had a hard time relating to their students. “They would sometimes struggle when they would go into schools because their life experiences were so different from those of the students they taught,” she explains.

On the flip side, Roggeman recalls a former student who was a Navy SEAL veteran who decided to pursue a career in teaching after retiring from the military. He, too, had a hard time managing his class. (His military experience meant he expected orders to be followed without question.) But after he learned classroom management strategies, he was able to adapt.

Roggeman explains: “He was actually easier to work with, because I’d be like, ‘OK, well this is what you need to do. You need to be consistent. You need to establish rules. You need to have consequences.’

“He understood those things in a way that some of his colleagues did not. Understanding the development stage students were in, he was able to discern when it was appropriate for his students to give input and when they did not. Some of his younger, less experienced colleagues could not make that distinction.

“And I’m like, ‘Yeah, you absolutely want to give your kids input into their class. But first you need to establish expectations.’”

A good teacher welcomes feedback

Knowing how to play to one’s audience is critical in many professions. For teachers, it’s doubly challenging, because the kids in a classroom aren’t the only ones who are going to offer feedback. They talk to their friends and their parents; parents talk to each other and to administrators.

The result can be an avalanche of commentary and input that’s sometimes based on comments or lessons taken out of context.

“You will get feedback all of the time ,” Roggeman says. “You have to be able to handle it, put it in perspective and learn what is valuable feedback and what isn’t.”

A good teacher forms a strong relationship with a mentor

The best professional development Roggeman ever had was carpooling with her department head during the first three years of her teaching career. It wasn’t a formal mentorship, but the relationship allowed her to understand the nuances of her profession and brainstorm ideas with an experienced, talented educator.

“It’s imperative that teachers have a respected person in the profession that they can connect with, look up to and trust,” she says. 

A good teacher can improvise

Like any public speaker, teachers understand that things can turn on a dime in the classroom. Even the best-laid lesson plans can suddenly prove insufficient — and kids won’t be bored, Roggeman warns.

That means it’s up to teachers to know how to not only break through to kids but fill the time with meaningful lessons.

“I think this is why a lot of other professions like to hire teachers,” Roggeman adds. Teachers know how to think on their feet.

Different teacher skills for different grades

While an elementary school teacher and a college instructor will have very different objectives for their students, the qualities of a good teacher hold across the board.

After all, a fifth grade teacher may seek to instill in her students an ability to be responsible for their own work, while a high school teacher may hope to inspire life skills like punctuality and planning ahead.

Both, however, will rely on communication to do that. Both teachers will need to create a safe learning space. And both teachers will fail at some point, only to reevaluate what they’re doing well and what needs to change.

Those are the hallmarks of what makes a good teacher after all. 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Elizabeth Exline has been telling stories ever since she won a writing contest in third grade. She's covered design and architecture, travel, lifestyle content and a host of other topics for national, regional, local and brand publications. Additionally, she's worked in content development for Marriott International and manuscript development for a variety of authors.

ABOUT THE REVIEWER

As dean of the University of Phoenix College of Education, Pamela Roggeman has spent over a decade in higher education teacher preparation in both the public and private sector. Her experience has included national partnerships that help to advance thought leadership in the field of education. Dr. Roggeman also serves as the President of the Arizona Educational Foundation’s Board of Directors.

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Top 10 Qualities of a Good Teacher: Every Teacher Should Have

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Teachers are the nation’s builder and being a great teacher is one of the most incredible things that a man can be. Think about your favourite persons. There must be someone of your teachers in your favourite list. A good teacher is such a person who the students remember and cherish all life long by their hearts. Good teachers are the most important factor in a student’s life behind his achievements.

A good teacher is like a Lightbringer who shows the right path and plays a significant role in building and shaping a student’s life. If you are considering a career in teaching and want to be a good teacher, then you must know the qualities of a good teacher. Every great teacher has unique traits and characteristics. But there are some common personal qualities needed to be a teacher. In this article, you’ll learn about the qualities of a good teacher and how to be a good teacher. 

What Makes A Good Teacher?

The answer isn’t straightforward. There are a lot of qualities and skills that collectively take part in making a good teacher. However, the top 10 qualities of a good teacher have been compiled here to give you a clear overview. Here is the checklist for you. 

The Top 10 Qualities of a Great Teacher

• Communication Skills
• Listening Skills
• Friendly Behaviour
• Adaptation Skills
• PatienceCollaborative
• Motivation Skills
• Engaging Capability
• Perseverance

Teaching is all about passion. Teaching isn’t such a profession that is suitable for all. It is appropriate only for the passionates. You need to have a strong passion for teaching if you want to be a good teacher and this is the first and foremost quality of a good teacher. Teaching is a challenging profession and these challenges are totally different from others. Without being passionate about this profession, you’ll lose your zeal and can’t enjoy it which will hinder you from being a good teacher. 

2. Communication Skills

Just like other professions, teaching also needs good communication skills. And communication skills are one of the most important qualities of a good teacher. As a teacher, you have to deal with your colleagues, students, their guardians and many more. Good communication skills will make your way easy to interact with them. Besides, you need to have a strong communication skill to be effective in your classroom. In your classroom, it’s more very important to deliver things right so that your students can understand everything. 

You may have strong subject knowledge. But if you can’t express it properly to your students, there is no use of your knowledge as a teacher. In this case, you need strong communication skills to deliver right what you know.

3. Listening Skills

Besides a good communicator, a good teacher is also a good listener. As a teacher, your duty isn’t only to stand in front of the class and deliver the topic. Listening well is one of the most important skills needed to be a good teacher. You should give your students spaces to talk, and listen to them what they want to express. This will help you to create a good teacher-student rapport which is important for both of you. 

4. Friendly Behaviour

Another necessary quality of a good teacher is friendly behaviour. Being friendly to your students creates trust and reliance among them. In a school or college, nothing is more beautiful than a strong teacher-student relationship and without having a friendly behaviour, you can’t build that relationship with your students. 

5. Adaptation Skills

Teaching is a constantly evolving profession and full of challenges. You may face curriculum change, inclusions of new syllabuses, and different teaching methods based on the authority’s demand. So, you need to cope with all of these changing conditions. Hence, you need to have strong adaptation skills to be a good teacher. 

6. Patience

Patience is one of the most important qualities of a good teacher. As a teacher, you have to deal with different students from different backgrounds and ages. Each of them has different needs and characteristics and you’ll find it challenging to address all of these. You may find some of your students aren’t getting the things right and taking more time to understand a topic with questioning repeatedly. Besides, some students can be indisciplined and cause trouble in the class. After all, there can be many things that don’t go as you want them. 

So, you need to have strong patience to work under these conditions and this is the behaviour of a good teacher.

7. Collaborative

Teaching means you’re not working alone at all. There are a variety of tasks where you need to collaborate with your fellows, students, and their guardians. This can be from curriculum development to taking classes. So, you should have a strong collaboration skill to be a good teacher. 

8. Motivation Skills

As a teacher, you need to keep your students motivated to stay on the right track and achieve their best. Your motivation and inspiration will lead your students to success, not only in their academic career but also in their every aspect of life. Great teachers have this strong skill of motivation and inspiration. 

9. Engaging Capability

Good teachers have a strong engaging capability. They can easily engage the students with their lessons. They present the subject in a way so that the students can relate them with it and have a hand on experience. This is very helpful in effective learning which is the goal of a good teacher. So, you should have the capability to engage your students with the topic that you’re going to teach them. 

10. Perseverance

Last but not least, perseverance is one of the most essential qualities of a good teacher. To be a good teacher, you have to be persistent with your goals. You should devote yourself to continuous learning to develop more and more. Because there is no end of learning even when you become a teacher yourself. Actually, perseverance is the quality that will lead you to achieve other qualities. So, you should have strong perseverance and willingness to learn to be a good teacher. 

Concluding Remarks

Now, it’s time for wrapping up. After going through this article, you’re now well informed about the qualities of a good teacher and what makes a good teacher. Now you know what to do and which qualities you should have. However, there are many other skills and strengths of a teacher that you should achieve. So, it would be better if you take some skill development training. To assist you in skill development, Teacher’s Training has come up with a variety of online courses, including the Ofqual Regulated “ Level 3 Award in Education and Training (AET) ” qualification. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s have a look at what we are offering to you.

FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

A: The primary goal of education is to facilitate student learning and development, ensuring that every student can understand and apply knowledge effectively. Education aims to empower students with the skills, knowledge, and values necessary to contribute positively to society.

A: Effective teaching methods actively engage students through interactive approaches that encourage participation, critical thinking, and the real-world application of ideas. This can include a variety of strategies, such as group work, problem-solving tasks, and discussions that relate to students’ everyday experiences in the UK.

A: Teachers require a combination of strong communication skills, patience, flexibility in accommodating different learning styles, creativity in curriculum design, and the ability to manage and motivate a diverse classroom. Teachers in the UK also need a good understanding of the National Curriculum and the ability to adapt it to the needs of their students.

A: The Big Five teacher personality traits include openness to new experiences, conscientiousness in preparation and organisation, proactiveness in engaging with students, willingness to foster a positive classroom environment, and emotional stability to handle challenges calmly.

A: Highly effective teaching is characterised by clear and structured instruction, enthusiasm for the subject matter, adaptability to student needs, strong relationships with students, and the creation of a supportive learning environment.

A: A Primary teacher must have the patience to guide young students, creativity to make learning enjoyable, strong communication skills to express ideas clearly, empathy to understand and support students’ needs, and flexibility to adjust teaching methods as required. Additionally, they should have a strong understanding of child development and the ability to apply this knowledge in the context of the UK’s educational framework.

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How to Write an Unforgettable Teacher Appreciation Speech

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Today we are showing you how to write a teacher appreciation speech that’ll show your all the teachers how meaningful they are.

Expressing gratitude towards wonderful teachers is not just a formality, but a meaningful gesture that can leave a lasting impact.

A well written appreciation speech has the power to inspire, uplift, and acknowledge the incredible work that educators do every day and show them how much each teacher deserves tremendous love.

Teachers play a vital role in shaping the lives of their students, instilling knowledge, values, and a passion for learning.

Here we dive into the art of writing a teacher appreciation speech that goes beyond mere words to truly resonate with its audience.

We will explore the significance of honoring teachers, the heartfelt emotions involved, and the importance of expressing gratitude sincerely.

Whether you are a student, a parent, or a colleague looking to convey your appreciation, crafting a thoughtful speech can convey your deep respect and admiration for the dedication and hard work of teachers.

After all, teachers are what make school such a special place. School would be just a hollow building without all the deeds amazing teachers do everyday.

A speech is a great idea for teacher’s appreciation week .

Looking for more great teacher appreciation ideas ? We’ve got lots of great teacher appreciation printables and teacher appreciation craft ideas too!

Table of Contents

Understanding the Role of Teachers in Society

Crafting a heartfelt teacher appreciation speech, structuring an inspiring teacher appreciation speech, delivering the speech with confidence and sincerity, acknowledging the impact of teacher appreciation, teacher appreciation speech example.

Teachers hold a pivotal role in shaping the future of society through their impact on students’ lives. They go beyond imparting knowledge, influencing values, skills, and character development. Let’s delve into the multifaceted role of teachers in our society.

Here are some things to consider before writing your speech.

Impact of Teachers on Students’ Lives

Teachers are more than just educators; they are mentors, role models, and supporters. Their influence extends far beyond the classroom, shaping the beliefs, attitudes, and aspirations of their students.

Teachers instill a sense of curiosity, critical thinking, and a thirst for knowledge that can last a lifetime. They play a crucial role in nurturing the next generation of leaders, innovators, and change-makers.

The relationships teachers build with their students can have a profound impact on their personal and academic growth. Teachers not only teach academic subjects but also impart life lessons, instilling values like empathy, resilience, and perseverance.

They help students discover their strengths, overcome challenges, and realize their full potential. The guidance and encouragement provided by teachers can set students on a path to success and fulfillment.

Challenges Faced by Teachers

Despite their vital role, teachers encounter numerous challenges in their profession. From heavy workloads and limited resources to diverse student needs and societal pressures, teachers navigate a complex landscape every day.

The demands of modern education, including standardized testing, curriculum changes, and technology integration, add to the challenges teachers face.

Moreover, teachers often deal with issues beyond academics, such as student behavior problems, mental health concerns, and societal inequalities.

The emotional labor involved in supporting students’ social and emotional well-being can be draining. Despite these challenges, teachers remain dedicated to their students’ growth and well-being, often going above and beyond their job descriptions.

Appreciation for teachers is crucial not only to boost their morale but also to acknowledge the hard work, passion, and dedication they bring to their profession.

Recognizing the challenges teachers face and expressing gratitude for their contributions can inspire them to continue making a positive impact on students’ lives.

In a society where teachers play such a significant role in shaping the future generations, it is essential to value and appreciate their efforts, recognizing the impact they have on individuals, communities, and the world at large.

Sharing a heartfelt teacher appreciation speech is a meaningful way to express gratitude and admiration for the educators who impact our lives.

Reflecting on personal experiences with teachers and how they have influenced us can add a personal touch to the speech, making it more genuine and memorable.

Personal Reflections on Teacher’s Influence

Begin by reflecting on specific moments when the teacher made a difference in your life.

Recall instances where their guidance, support, or encouragement influenced your personal growth and academic journey.

Share anecdotes that highlight the positive impact the teacher had on you, allowing the audience to understand the depth of your appreciation.

Expressing Specific Appreciation

Expressing gratitude with specific examples can make your speech more impactful. Mention particular qualities or actions of the teacher that you admire and appreciate.

Whether it’s their dedication to helping students, their innovative teaching methods, or their unwavering support, sharing concrete examples can demonstrate the profound impact they have had on you and others.

Adding Personal Touches to the Speech

Adding personal touches to your teacher appreciation speech can make it more heartfelt and memorable. Consider using resources like teacher appreciation poems and teach appreciation quotes to add a creative and touching flair to your message.

These elements can beautifully complement your anecdotes, illustrating the profound bond between teachers and their students.

You can also incorporate personal experiences or lessons learned from the teacher that have shaped your growth and perspective. Personalizing the speech shows thoughtfulness and gratitude, making the teacher feel truly valued and appreciated.

Crafting a teacher appreciation speech that resonates with your audience requires careful structuring to ensure your message is impactful and memorable. Here’s how you can structure your speech to inspire and honor your teachers.

Setting the Tone

The introduction of your teacher appreciation speech sets the tone for the entire address. It serves as the hook that captures the audience’s attention and piques their interest. Consider starting with a personal anecdote, a thought-provoking quote, or a heartfelt thank you to immediately engage your listeners. A captivating introduction not only grabs attention but also sets the stage for the heartfelt appreciation you’re about to express.

Sharing Appreciation Stories

In the body of your speech, sharing personal anecdotes and appreciation stories can profoundly impact your audience. Reflect on specific moments when a teacher’s guidance or support made a difference in your life or the lives of others.

By weaving these stories into your speech, you humanize your message and illustrate the positive influence teachers have. Personal narratives create a connection with your audience and showcase the genuine appreciation you have for your teachers.

You can get ideas in our guide for writing teacher appreciation letter or examples for thank-you notes from parents , which can provide a personal touch and demonstrate the collective appreciation of the community.

Sharing specific instances where teachers have made a significant difference can make your speech more relatable and heartfelt.

Inspiring Closing Remarks

Concluding your teacher appreciation speech with impactful closing remarks leaves a lasting impression on your audience. Use this final opportunity to reinforce your gratitude, summarize key points, and leave the audience inspired.

Consider ending with a with an inspiring message, possibly echoing the sentiments found in thank-you messages from students , leaving a lasting impression of heartfelt appreciation.

Crafting an inspiring teacher appreciation speech involves structuring your message thoughtfully, from the attention-grabbing introduction to the heartfelt conclusion.

By setting the right tone, sharing personal stories, and ending with impactful closing remarks, you can create a speech that honors and celebrates the teachers who have made a difference.

Delivering a teacher appreciation speech with confidence and sincerity is a critical aspect of making a lasting impact on your audience. Here are some tips to help you practice, maintain eye contact, and deliver your speech with genuine emotion:

Tips on Practicing the Speech

• Practice Makes Perfect : Rehearse your speech multiple times to familiarize yourself with the content and flow.
• Record Yourself : Recording your practice sessions allows you to identify areas for improvement, such as pacing and tone.
• Seek Feedback : Ask friends or family to listen to your speech and provide constructive feedback for refinement.
• Visualize Success : Picture yourself delivering the speech confidently and envision a positive response from your audience.

Maintaining Eye Contact

• Connect with Your Audience : Maintain eye contact with different individuals in the room to establish a personal connection and convey sincerity.
• Engage with Emotion : Use eye contact to express genuine gratitude and appreciation for the teachers you are addressing.
• Practice In Front of a Mirror : Practice making eye contact with your reflection to build confidence in maintaining eye contact during the actual speech.

Delivering with Genuine Emotion

• Speak from the Heart : Infuse your speech with personal anecdotes and heartfelt sentiments to evoke genuine emotion.
• Express Gratitude : Verbally express your appreciation for the teachers’ dedication and impact on your life and education.
• Stay True to Your Emotions : Avoid sounding rehearsed by staying authentic and allowing your emotions to shine through in your delivery.

By following these tips, you can deliver your speech for teachers with the confidence and sincerity that will truly inspire and touch the hearts of your audience.

Expressing gratitude towards teachers not only brightens their day but also plays a significant role in shaping their teaching journey. Let’s delve into how gratitude impacts teachers and ways to continue appreciating them beyond a speech.

How Gratitude Impacts Teachers

Gratitude acts as a driving force for teachers, fueling their passion and dedication towards their students. When teachers feel appreciated, it boosts their morale, leading to increased job satisfaction and motivation to excel in their roles.

The simple act of acknowledging their hard work and commitment can have a profound impact on their overall well-being.

It reinforces a sense of value and recognition, creating a positive environment where teachers feel supported and encouraged to continue making a difference in the lives of their students.

Continuing the Appreciation Beyond the Speech

While a thank you speech is a wonderful gesture, it’s essential to continue showing gratitude consistently.

Simple actions such as writing a heartfelt note, volunteering to help with classroom tasks, or participating in school events can go a long way in recognizing and supporting teachers.

Building a culture of appreciation not only benefits individual teachers but also fosters a sense of community within the school.

By consistently showing appreciation and support, we can empower teachers to thrive and inspire future generations with their dedication and passion.

Here’s an example of a great teacher appreciation speech.

Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed colleagues, and most importantly, our honored teachers,

As we gather in this moment of gratitude, we find ourselves reflecting on the invaluable impact you’ve made on our lives. Your dedication extends far beyond the walls of any classroom, reaching deep into the hearts and minds of those you teach. Today, I wish to celebrate you with words that mirror our collective admiration, starting with a poem that echoes our sentiments:

“In the garden of life, teachers plant seeds of knowledge that grow forever. With gentle hands and a nurturing heart, they cultivate dreams, inspire curiosity, and awaken the soul to the endless possibilities that await.”

This poem, though simple, captures the essence of what you do every day. You are the gardeners of human potential, nurturing budding minds with the richness of education and the warmth of your dedication.

In the spirit of expressing our deepest thanks, let me share a quote that resonates profoundly with the essence of your contribution: “A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops.” Your impact is immeasurable, not confined by the here and now but extending into the infinite reach of future generations. Your words, your lessons, and your care forge the legacy of your influence, a legacy that transcends time and space.

Every day, you paint the world with the colors of wisdom and truth, guiding us with patience and understanding, and illuminating the path of learning with the light of your knowledge. Your commitment to education is not just a profession but a profound calling, a dedication to shaping the architects of tomorrow and the guardians of a brighter future.

Through your eyes, we have glimpsed the wonders of the world, and through your words, we have been inspired to pursue our dreams with courage and confidence. You have shown us that the quest for knowledge is not a race to be won but a journey to be savored, filled with endless curiosity and boundless possibilities.

As we stand here in admiration of your unwavering dedication, let us acknowledge that the true essence of teaching is not to fill minds with data but to ignite the spark of understanding and the flame of passion. You have mastered this art with grace, imparting lessons that endure far beyond the final bell.

In closing, let this moment be a testament to our heartfelt appreciation for the countless ways you enrich our lives. Your influence shapes not just the intellect but the very spirit of those you teach, igniting a fire of learning that burns brightly within us all.

Thank you, dear teachers, for every moment, every lesson, and every memory. Your legacy is not just in the minds you’ve enlightened but in the lives you’ve inspired. We are all better for having known you, and our gratitude is as boundless as the knowledge you share.

Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts.

Crafting a heartfelt teacher appreciation speech is not only a gesture of gratitude but also a powerful way to inspire and uplift those who dedicate their lives to education.

Emphasizing the importance of recognizing the hard work and dedication of teachers, we have explored how to structure a speech that resonates with sincerity and admiration.

Remember, simplicity and authenticity are key when expressing your gratitude. Let your words flow naturally, focusing on the impact your teacher has had on your life and the lives of others.

Take the time to reflect on the qualities that make your teacher special and be sure to convey your appreciation with genuine emotion.

By harnessing the power of gratitude in your speech, you have the opportunity to create a lasting impression that will inspire both your teacher and your audience.

So go ahead, write your own teacher appreciation speech and let your words be a beacon of gratitude and inspiration.

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“Coach” Tim Walz’s 2024 DNC Speech Was the Biggest Pep Talk of His Life

Just a few weeks ago, if someone said Oprah Winfrey and Bill Clinton would be opening acts for Tim Walz , you’d have been forgiven for thinking, Tim who ?

And yet, Wednesday evening, on the biggest stage of his life, Walz completed his remarkable transformation from relatively unknown governor of Minnesota to vice-presidential pick of a newly reinvigorated Democratic ticket alongside Kamala Harris .

The governor rose to prominence thanks to his eagerness to taunt Donald Trump and JD Vance , famously branding them and their ilk as “ weird ,” spawning countless memes and launching a political strategy that has helped bring the party base back from the brink of despair. And Walz was not shy about reminding the DNC crowd of his willingness to play offense: He swiped at a supposedly “anti-elitist” Vance for his Yale pedigree; mocked Trump for his leadership flaws and tendency to blame others; and, yes, called their agenda “weird,” but “also wrong and… dangerous.”

Throughout his remarks, Walz leaned heavily into his Midwestern “ dad in plaid ” persona—the man walked out to John Mellencamp ’s “Small Town,” for crying out loud. His wife Gwen and two kids, Hope and Gus wept as he ran through his biography, from National Guardsman to social studies teacher and state championship-winning football coach to longshot politician.

“Never underestimate a public school teacher,” he said to rapturous applause.

But the speech reached stratospheric heights when it turned into a dramatic pre-game locker room pep talk reminiscent of Al Pacino ’s turn in Any Given Sunday .

“I have not given a lot of big speeches like this,” Walz said, once again referencing his humble origins, “but I have given a lot of pep talks. So let me finish with this, team: It is the fourth quarter, we are down a field goal, but we are on offense and we’ve got the ball. We are driving down the field, and, boy, do we have the right team.”

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He then hyped up his quarterback, so to speak. “Kamala Harris is tough, Kamala Harris is experienced, and Kamala Harris is ready. Our job, our job, our job,” Walz continued, gesturing to include even those watching at home, “is to get into the trenches and do the blocking and tackling. One inch at a time, one yard at a time, one phone call at a time, one door knock at a time, one five-dollar donation at a time.”

And then, crescendoing as throngs of attendees waved placards reading “Coach Walz,” he concluded: “Look, we've got 76 days, that is nothing. There will be time to sleep when you’re dead. We are going to leave it on the field. That is how we keep moving forward. That is how we turn the page on Donald Trump.”

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Call him Coach: Tim Walz, governor and congressman, chooses a folksier intro to voters

Call him Coach.

Never mind that Tim Walz has been governor of Minnesota for the past five years and a congressman for a dozen years before that. As he seeks a promotion to vice president, he chose a folksier introduction Wednesday to Americans who had no idea who he was until Kamala Harris picked him as her running mate two weeks ago.

Not a pol, not at heart. Instead, a husband and father, a deer hunter and a car guy, a social studies teacher and a basketball coach from the Gopher State who helped turn his high-school team from losers to state champions.

"I haven't given a lot of big speeches like this, but I have given a lot of pep talks, so let me finish with this," Walz declared to cheers as he accepted the vice-presidential nomination on the third night of the Democratic National Convention. "It's the fourth quarter. We're down a field goal, but we're on offense and we've got the ball."

With that, he said, Democrats could "block and tackle" down the field for the next 76 days of the campaign and "turn the page on Donald Trump."

It was hard to miss the intended message about who he was: He was introduced on stage by 15 guys, now young men, whom he had coached on the Mankato West High School football team. Some of them sported faded red football jerseys from those days, now straining at the seams.

The crowd in the United Center waved a sea of "Coach Walz" placards.

An opportunity to make a first impression

Timothy James Walz, the most obscure candidate picked for a major-party ticket since Sarah Palin, had the rare opportunity in his speech on the third night of the Democratic National Convention to make a first impression.

The opportunity − and the risk.

The risk because the race is now on between Democrats who want to define Walz as a happy warrior and good-neighbor Midwesterner, and Republicans who are casting him as a leftist ideologue who can't be trusted to tell the truth.

But he came across as direct, unpretentious, blunt and funny. His speech lacked the sure-footed confidence and perfect cadence of Tuesday's barnburners from former president Barack Obama and Michelle Obama that rocked the hall.

Instead, Walz, 60 and balding, projected an affable but determined, no-hogwash persona.

"You can tell those flannel shirts he wears don't come from some consultant; they come from his closet," Barack Obama had previewed. "And they've been through some stuff."

When Walz's speech was over and his family came on stage, his 17-year-old son, Gus, was grinning, tears in his eyes. "That's my Dad," he announced to the cheering crowd.

Veeps don't matter, except when they do

Vice-presidential candidates rarely affect the outcome of presidential elections, which typically turn on the top of the ticket. The last one who clearly did was six decades ago, when Sen. Lyndon Johnson delivered his home state of Texas for John F. Kennedy, clinching the Democrats' narrow victory in 1960.

But running mates can create troublesome distractions, as Donald Trump has discovered with his choice at last month's Republican convention of JD Vance.

The Ohio senator is still explaining controversial past statements, including his 2021 complaint that the country was being run by "a bunch of childless cat ladies," mentioning Harris by name.

So far, though, Harris, seems to be benefitting from an easy chemistry with Walz, whose exuberance on stage reinforces her image of an energetic new generation taking charge.

"Most people will vote based upon the presidential candidates, but I think Gov. Walz may matter more than many VP candidates," said Joel Goldstein of St. Louis University, who has studied the role of vice presidents. Their complementary backgrounds − the prosecutor from San Francisco and the public-school teacher reared in rural Nebraska − could broaden the ticket's appeal.

He fulfilled one traditional role of vice presidents: Attacking the other ticket.

He said Trump and his running mate, JD Vance, would pursue a far-right agenda, "an agenda that serves nobody except the richest and the most extreme among us." They would ban abortion nationwide and repeal the Affordable Care Act, he said.

"It is weird?" he asked, a word he had coined about Trump. "Absolutely. But it's also wrong, and it's dangerous."

With Kamala Harris, "we've got something better to offer the American people."

She accepts the presidential nomination at the convention's climax Thursday night.

Hero teacher or blatant liar?

A few hours before he spoke, a Democratic super-PAC called Priorities USA Action and the American Federation of Teachers announced a "six-figure" buy for a Mr. Chips-style ad that featured a former student of "Mr. Walz" recalling her teacher's efforts to make the classroom comfortable for kids of all political stripes.

At almost the same moment, the Trump-Vance campaign released an open letter signed by 50 Republican members of Congress who are military veterans accusing Walz of "blatant misrepresentations" about his 24 years of service in the National Guard.

At issue is Walz saying he had left the National Guard as a "retired command sergeant major;" while he had achieved that rank, he retired one step lower. The letter criticized him for saying in 2018 that he had carried weapons "in war" when he hadn't been deployed in combat, only in support operations.

The letter also said Walz had "turned your back on your troops," a reference to his decision to retire as he began his first campaign for Congress and as speculation swirled that his unit was going to be deployed to Iraq.

Walz didn't respond directly to them, but he did describe his pride in enlisting as soon as he turned 17. A video before he spoke showed interviews with two men with whom he served, praising his leadership.

Before he was picked by Harris, 9 of 10 Americans in an ABC/Ipsos poll said they didn't know enough about him to have an opinion. In a new AP/NORC poll, 36% had a favorable impression of him, 25% an unfavorable one.

Which still leaves 1 in 4 Americans up for grabs.