Walk up to your teacher confidently, make eye contact, extend your hand, and say something like “It’s nice to meet you, Mr. Reed. I’m Jane Smith, and I’m really looking forward to Algebra class this year. Actually, I think you had my older brother in class — do you remember Joe Smith?”
Some people recommend “dressing for success” as a student — that is, wearing slightly more refined, stylish clothes than comfy sweats, etc. — in order to make a good impression. This is an option, but a nice smile is the easiest (and cheapest) way to make a good visual impression.
If you get a “C” instead of the “B” you expected on a test, don’t gripe and groan about it for the whole class period. Use it as an opportunity and motivation for improvement, and let your determination and confidence show.
You can even offer to help out without the teacher asking for volunteers. It’s best to do this discretely, either before or after class. Otherwise, other students may become annoyed with you. Also, don’t insist upon helping out when the teacher says “Oh, that’s OK” — or you may begin to frustrate the person you’re trying to impress!
For instance, if you’ve finished with your classroom lab project, go up and ask your teacher if you can give a bit of assistance to a classmate who seems to be struggling with the project. Or, offer to do some peer tutoring outside of class if you’ve really got a good handle on the material.
Don’t hesitate to ask questions if you don’t understand something. Your teacher will be more than happy to help you. This implies that you want to learn and that you strive to do well in school. However, it is possible to ask too many questions — if you seem to be interfering with class or frustrating your teacher, jot down your questions and bring them up after class or (if available) by email, etc. Generally speaking, though, it is better to ask too many questions than too few.
Dedicate yourself to turning in assignments on time. Late work can result in punishments, and your teacher won’t be happy either. Turning in your first assignment late isn’t a good way to make a good first impression. If you’re having trouble keeping up due to the difficulty of the work or some other factors, talk to your teacher about it immediately.
If your studying doesn’t seem to be producing the results you expect, seek out advice on improving your technique. Teachers are usually eager to give out study tips — but you have to ask first.
Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. It shows that you are determined to give your best effort — and teachers value all-out effort from students above practically any other quality. [10] X Research source
Don’t test the rules to see what you can get away with. Let some other kid do that. Focus on impressing your teacher with your knowledge of and adherence to the classroom rules. This demonstrates maturity, respect, and diligence.
You will be a distraction, and you won’t be ready to learn, if you show up late to class. Do everything you can to make it to class on time, if not early. Unless you have a truly legitimate reason for being late, don’t try to make excuses. Be as discreet and quiet as possible as you take your place in class, and give an apologetic look to your teacher.
If you’re having trouble keeping focused during class, ask to be moved to the front row. This is especially helpful if other students are distracting you, or if you have any kind of hearing or vision difficulties. Talk to your teacher about other possible solutions if necessary.
Don’t raise your hand and blurt out “Mrs. Magowan, Sam and Max are talking instead of paying attention. ” Instead, wait until after class and discreetly voice your concerns about the distraction they are causing you and others. If, however, Sam and Max are playing around recklessly with the Bunsen burner, inform your teacher right away.
