Questions

1. Do you have a favorite teacher?
2. Do you want to be a teacher in the future?
3. What kinds of teachers do you like?
4. Do you think teachers should get angry at students?
5. Can you describe a high school teacher?
6. What’s the difference between young and old teachers?

Sample Answers

Do you have a favorite teacher? Actually, I do. My favorite teacher was my high school English teacher, Mrs. Johnson. She was really passionate about literature and made the subject come alive for me. I think what I liked most about her was that she took a genuine interest in her students and was always willing to lend a helping hand. She had this way of making you feel like you were the only one in the class, you know, like she was talking directly to you. I think that's what made her stand out from the rest.

Do you want to be a teacher in the future? Honestly, I've thought about it, but I'm not sure. I think teaching is a really rewarding profession, but it's also a lot of hard work. I've had some great teachers in the past who've inspired me, and I think it would be amazing to have that kind of impact on someone's life. But, at the same time, I'm not sure if I have the patience for it. I think it's a tough job, and you have to be able to connect with people on a lot of different levels. Maybe someday, but for now, I'm not sure.

What kinds of teachers do you like? I think I prefer teachers who are enthusiastic and genuinely interested in their subject. You can tell when someone's just going through the motions, and it's hard to get excited about something when the teacher isn't. I also like teachers who are approachable and willing to listen. I had a professor in college who was like that – he was always available to chat and offer advice, and it made a big difference in my learning experience.

Do you think teachers should get angry at students? I don't think so. I mean, I get it, teaching can be frustrating, but getting angry at students isn't going to solve anything. In fact, it's probably going to make things worse. I think teachers should try to stay calm and patient, even when things get tough. It's hard, I know, but it's part of the job. And besides, when teachers get angry, it can be really intimidating for students. I think it's better for everyone if they can just take a deep breath and try to find a solution to the problem.

Can you describe a high school teacher? Okay, so my high school history teacher, Mr. Thompson, was a pretty typical example. He was in his mid-40s, I think, with a kind of no-nonsense attitude. He was always dressed in a suit and tie, even on Fridays, and he had this really dry sense of humor that took some getting used to. But despite his tough exterior, he was actually a really caring guy who wanted his students to succeed. He was always willing to help us out, even if it meant staying after school to tutor us.

What’s the difference between young and old teachers? I think one of the main differences is energy level. Younger teachers tend to be more energetic and enthusiastic, which can be really inspiring for students. They're also often more tech-savvy, which can be helpful in the classroom. On the other hand, older teachers often have more experience and can draw on that to inform their teaching. They may also be more set in their ways, but that's not always a bad thing – sometimes consistency is what students need.

Key Phrases and Idioms

make something come alive

to make something seem more interesting or exciting

She made the subject of history come alive for me.

The teacher's enthusiasm made the lesson come alive.

go through the motions

to do something without much enthusiasm or energy

He's just going through the motions in his job.

The teacher was going through the motions, but the students could tell she wasn't interested.

take a deep breath

to calm down and think carefully before reacting

Take a deep breath and try to relax.

The teacher took a deep breath before answering the student's question.