NOTE: Members of the eighth grade yearbook class will write an article each quarter for the Hilltopper Online.
Some classes in middle school can start to feel the same every day, with routines like “get textbooks out and turn to page…” or “take notebooks out for notes.” While routines can help keep things organized, it doesn’t always keep students fully engaged. Most students prefer when teachers try to make class engaging and different everyday by using different teaching strategies to help them gain the knowledge that they need. Students also might do better in a class where there is a good relationship with the teacher. When it comes down to their opinion on their preferred way of learning, one catches more attention than the other.
According to Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, studies show that students in active learning scored about 6% higher on assessments compared to lecture students, but they felt like they learned less, having about 14% lower perceived learning than students in traditional lectures.
“I would say that the visual teaching style helps me learn the most and they don’t just stand there and talk to me, because I’m more of a visual learner,” Mattie Merz (8) said.
Connections between students and teachers can create numerous benefits and assist the student in becoming more comfortable in the classroom.
“I do think it’s important [to build a relationship with students] because if the teacher has a relationship with the student, then I feel like they’re more likely to enjoy the class and the teacher can help them more,” Edie Twehues (8) said.
A classroom environment can determine how a student learns. Some classrooms have a specific structure, with firm routines and very clear rules that help students stay organized and engaged during the lessons.
“At the beginning of the academic year, I clearly articulate my classroom expectations, ensuring that every student understands the standards for conduct and performance,” aeventh grade science teacher Holly Workman said.
An organized learning environment is key when it comes to staying consistent and actively focused.
“This structured approach provides students with a predictable framework that fosters a secure environment, allowing students to focus their energy on growth and learning,” Workman said.
Other teachers take a more laid back approach, by letting students work at their own pace, giving a calm environment and giving students the responsibility to make sure assignments are turned in.
“Since I teach 250 people a day, I feel like I have very clear directions, and sometimes have to say it slowly, and I repeat it so that…we can stay organized…I give students plenty of notice and I spell it out, like ‘this is what you need to have done’ so they can be successful and organized” Middle school choral director Beth Rowland said.
Along with just overall teaching styles, specific moments matter too. Harper Muehlenkamp (8) remembers when sixth grade language arts teacher Karen Kampschmidt went above and beyond to help her understand a lesson.
“Mrs. Kampschmidt, in sixth grade. I didn’t understand DGP because I went to a private school, and she invited me after school to help me, and she did that for a couple of days, and then I finally got it, and she was very nice about it” Harper Muehlenkamp (8) said.
Muelenkamp’s story highlights the impact of personalized support, which is beneficial not only for the student, but also for the teacher.
“It is very rewarding when a student understands something that they didn’t before…It’s this feeling you get that you did something important and so I think teachers are always kind of chasing that feeling of accomplishment when they see their students and they’re proud of them,” Kampschmidt said.
