An Example of Compassion

My high school chemistry teacher cared so much for all of her students. She came in early and stayed late almost every day to help struggling students. Her style of teaching was different than any other teacher in our school. This teacher made us learn on our own, doing our own research to figure out concepts, and help us arrive at answers on our own without just giving it to us. It was obvious to me from the beginning of the class that this woman genuinely cared about her students. One day after school, a group of students and I were working in this classroom on a project, when one of my classmates came in crying. She had been having family problems and talking to my teacher about it, so when something happened that upset my friend, she went straight to this teacher. I watched her hug my friend, and give her great advice, and just be there for her. That moment proved that this woman was a naturally compassionate person.

Respect in the Classroom

I personally view respect as having consideration for other people and things. Respect is about being aware of your surroundings, and treating them in a way that is positive to their well-being. It is a cliche, but I support the idea that says you have to give respect to receive respect. That means the same as the well known action of treating others as you would want to be treated. From my own experience, I am not going to want to act compassionately towards someone who is treating me poorly or talking down to me. However, I have found that if I am giving a person my full interest and "respect", I do receive the same in return. 


In the classroom, respect is in the form of a positive give and take between the students and the teacher. A teacher shouldn't talk down to the students or act as if they are a superior power who has the right to control the students. A teacher should be an authority figure, but should do so in a way that allows the students to choose to follow the instructions because they want to. For example, a teacher who is demanding about the student's assigned task will most likely cause the student to resent taking part. A teacher who can make the task sound interesting, without coming off as just barking out orders, will be a much better motivator. Most students will want to accomplish the task at hand, rather than feeling forced to do so. A teacher who can establish equal giving and receiving respect will have a much more well functioning classroom. The students will be excited to learn and be a part of activities, and the teacher will have an easier time with getting students to participate enthusiastically. 


All in all, respect is important to a smooth functioning classroom. I believe that respect should first be shown to the students from the teacher. This way, the children get a chance to see what respect looks like, allowing them to figure out how to give respect to others. Respect is caring about everything surrounding you, and acting in a way that shows just that. I find it 100% true, that you have to give respect to get respect. Once that is established, everyone in the classroom will find out how to work together successfully.