Getting Along With Teachers

I don’t think my teacher likes me. It seems he picks on me all the time. How do I handle this situation?

First, we need to look at why he might be picking on you. Think about your own behaviour. Let’s look at situations where a teacher might need to deal with students on unpleasant issues: is your homework complete, do you behave in class; are you on time? Secondly, are there other students who notice that you are being centered out, or are other students being “picked on” as well? Third, do you notice the teacher commenting consistently on the same problem area such as speaking out of turn?

Teachers are human too and they do make mistakes but some of the common reasons for “picking on” students might include:

1. Knowing that they can do better.

2. Knowing that they have not done their homework and that not having the answer is embarrassing. They hope that embarrassment will motivate students to do their homework the next time and thus learn more. Not that nice, but it does work!

3. Teachers feel that the student is disrupting the learning experience of others’ in the classroom.

If you are having difficulty figuring out the reason for this teacher’s behavior towards you, meeting with him is a good first step. Telling him how you feel when he centers you out or reprimands you and ask why. The teacher may justify his approach to give you a clearer understanding or at least it will let him know how you feel. If this does not settle the matter talk to your parents. If necessary a meeting with the principal can be arranged.

You have a right to a positive learning experience and if you feel that you are being treated unfairly, please speak to an adult about your concerns.