It’s easy to lose sight of the impact we have.

This teacher appreciation week (May 8, 2023 – May 12, 2023) taking some time to prompt your students to reflect on their learning is a good way to recognise your accomplishments, and encourage students to consider the impact education has on their lives.

We’ve compiled seven questions you can use with your students to prompt reflection and encourage them to share their positive experiences.

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1. What is something a teacher has said that has really stuck with you?

It’s encouraging to know your words have made an impact. But we often don’t know when our students have really taken in what has been said. 

Asking this questions gives students an opportunity to share what they've taken in.

Hearing a student reflect our words back is perhaps one of the greatest compliments we can receive. 

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2. What have you learned recently that will help you in the future?

Inviting students to think about how their education will help them in the future encourages them to recognise the value of their time at school. 

It also helps them reflect on their personal development and how they have grown. 

Seeing students recognise the impact of our work on their life is priceless.

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3. If I were the teacher for the day, one change I would make would be…

Having students share what they would change can be an excellent source of inspiration and give you insight into what is or isn’t working in your classroom. 

It’s also fun to read some of the more whacky suggestions.

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4. Who has made a positive difference in your life recently?

Getting students to share the people who have made a positive difference in their lives is a nice way to help them think about their support network and also invites the opportunity to share positive experiences of school. 

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5. What is something you accomplished this year that you are proud of?

Having your students recognise what they have achieved can be a great way to build your their confidence. 

It can also be a nice way for them to share their educational accomplishments, something which you can both take pride in.

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6. How have you grown as a student this year?

Learning is a skill. But students rarely think about how they develop their own learning skills. 

Asking this question can help them recognise the impact they have on their own learning, and provides a nice opportunity for you to reflect on the growth of your students.

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7. If your teacher were a cartoon character, who would they be and why?

Not everything has to be serious. Asking fun questions can be a good way to change things up in the classroom and build stronger relationships. 

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Summary

Taking time with your students to reflect on their growth and how you have helped them can be a wonderful way to celebrate your contribution. 

However you’re recognised for Teacher Appreciation Week, we want to thank you for being such an important part of our community and taking the time to make Ziplet part of your teaching.

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