Lesson 4 Reflection

Simply put, being a relational teacher means that a teacher can connect with their students. There are many ways to establish such connections with students. One strategy I employ at the beginning of the year is a manifesto activity in which my students write personal statements about something they firmly believe in. This helps show them that I am interested in who they are as students and it also reveals a lot about my students, such as their interests and passions. I also interview my students one-on-one, asking them basic "getting to know you" questions. It's a relaxed setting, and once again, shows students that I have a genuine interest in who they are as people, not just as students in my classroom. I also try to make class lessons and assignments that are aligned with my students' interests.