Question Time by Christina

Question Time by Christina - January 2015 Scholarship Essay

If I could give a teacher one piece of advice to help me learn, it would be to tell him or her to incorporate some time for questions, or discussion, into the day’s lesson plan. Many times, my instructors have continued teaching until the bell rings; some yell out the homework as students are leaving the class. I do not believe this is prudent, as this can lead to students completing the wrong assignments. Consequently, students’ grades will be negatively affected. Not only that, but if a student must stay after class to ask questions concerning the homework, that student is compromising time that is allotted for his or her next period class. Most often, the teacher needs to prepare for their next class, as well.

A domino effect would be created. The short amount of time students are given to get books from their lockers for the next class, and arrive on time to the next class, might be used asking questions that could have been answered during the previous class period. This will result in students being late for their next class, unprepared for their next class, or both.

If time were allotted for daily class discussions, much like an open forum, it would most definitely increase my learning. These discussions would not have to be long, but they would be very beneficial. The discussion could serve as a recap on the day’s material, or a brief outline of what will be due in the near future. Questions, comments, and concerns would be expressed, and problems would be handled without interfering with another period. If this change was implemented, I am quite certain other students would benefit from this format, as well as me.