Saturday, January 16, 2010

Freedom Writers: Teaching

I. Talk to a partner.

1. What are the characteristics of a good teacher. Make a list of at least 8 qualities he must have.

2. What are some characteristics a good teacher can't have. Make a list of 5 of them.

3. Who is your favorite teacher? Why?

4. Have you ever had problems with a teacher? Talk about it.

5. In your opinion, what are the greatest difficulties a teacher faces?

6. How different is it to teach at a regular public school and at a private school? Explain it.

7. Are teacher's pay fair where you live? If not, why not?

8. Are teachers acknowledged the way they deserve? Justify it.

9. Is teaching dangerous where you live?

10. How will teaching change in the future?

Watch the movie segment. Then discuss the following questions:

1. Describe the scene.

2. What are the adversities this teacher will face during the term?

3. How should she handle the situation?

4. How would you describe this group of students?

5. How would you describe the teacher?

6. Is it possible to teach with such a group of students? Explain it.

7. How different is this reality from where you study? Explain it.

8. What would be the ideal school like, in your opinion?



  1. Thank you so much for creating and sharing these wonderful lessons. This is perfect for keeping my students engaged with exciting movie clips along with relevant activities and discussion questions.

    Take care.


  2. Thanks, Phuong. I'm glad they're useful. See you.

  3. Great notes, thank you. One small thing, could you change the colour of the writing in the questions, they are really hard to read when projected on a white board. High contrast colours would be better. Thanks again, some good discussion starter questions here :)

    Rob Barron
    Christchurch, UK

  4. This is an amazing website for both teachers and students. It really helps a lot to teach the four main skills. Thank you very much for your time and effort.

  5. I have been using this site many times. My students and I find it very intresting and useful.
    Thank you for sharing :)
    / English teacher in Sweden