How to Become a More Enthusiastic Teacher
One of the best ways to become an effective teacher is to get excited about what you are teaching and passionate about your subject matter. Enthusiasm in the classroom will give your students the energy and motivation to succeed, whether it’s in school or outside of school. By following these tips on how to become a more enthusiastic teacher, you can boost your level of enthusiasm, engage with your audience more, and inspire your students in their studies so they make more connections between classroom lessons and real-world applications of what they learn.
Listen and take notes
To be an enthusiastic teacher, you must become a great listener. Before every lecture, take out your notepad and write down questions that students might ask. During lesson, listen intently for these questions and answer them thoroughly in your own words as you go along. In addition to actively listening, make sure to take notes—and highlight key points throughout each lesson so you can quickly reference them during office hours or in future lesson. These details will help you remember what points matter most so you can focus on providing more thorough explanations and real-world examples later on. For example, if you want students to really understand part of speech, point out that part of speech is not just about forming sentences and passing test but about our day to day conversation with friends and family and how to use the right choice of words.
Speak slow and clear
If you speak quickly and mumble, it can be hard for students to follow along. To teach with more enthusiasm, speak slowly and clearly; if you’re nervous about public speaking, try practicing in front of your mirror or video-taping yourself. It might feel awkward at first, but over time it will become easier! In general, students are more engaged when they’re able to follow along and fully understand what you’re saying.
Showcase your expertise
Whether you’re starting out or have been in your current position for years, there are probably things you’re good at and things you don’t know much about. During your first year of teaching, start documenting what topics and styles of teaching work best for your students. Then make it a point to learn more about those strategies and teach them over time.
Practice presentation skills
It can be nerve-wracking to get up in front of students for a new teacher, but practice really does make perfect. The more you do it, and refine your skills, the more natural public speaking will feel for you. Remember to plan out what points you want to make and come up with some visual aids (see below) so that your presentation goes as smoothly as possible!
Have fun in the process
One of my favorite things about teaching is when my students understand something new. Teaching a topic that someone understands and enjoys learning is one of my greatest sources of joy. I like being able to explain concepts in ways that they’ve never heard before, and I love seeing someone come into class on Monday morning and say, Hey, Miss Olotu—I thought about that question you asked us over break all weekend long! I think I have an answer now.
Get feedback from a mentor
If you’re lacking in confidence or don’t know how to begin, getting some help from someone who has taught that subject before can be immensely helpful. Chances are they’ve had students like you—and they can share their advice on what worked and what didn’t. They may also be able to give you insights into the different types of methods used in teaching the subject.
Keep practicing
When you’re first starting out, it can be difficult to get your students engaged. As you gain experience, though, and as you see what works for various classes of students, your enthusiasm will grow. Over time, keep honing those skills—and practice makes perfect! Every time you teach a new class, push yourself out of your comfort zone. Try something new. You might just find that you enjoy teaching even more than before.
