Listen Up, Teacher! You are Making a Difference!

by Shirley Garcia, David Cottrell

Listen Up, Teacher is an inspirational book that reinforces the importance of the classroom teacher. Written from the perspective of a student who cares, the book explains ten important traits about teachers and the impact they have on student's lives.

Paperback

Published January 1, 2002

Reviews

[Jeff R. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have used this small pamphlet for 20 years to remind me of important concepts and principles for being a better teacher. Many years ago, I synthesized the core messages from this pamphlet into 7 pages, then created several pages of questions to ask myself how to make my own class better. Each and every summer, I use this synthesis and these questions as part of a process of systematically analyzing my own class, and asking how, exactly, I can do better within each category etc. I see some negative reviews here. It seems some people have missed the point, the objective of this 56 pg. pamphlet. It's not meant as a thorough analysis; rather, it's meant to quickly emphasize some core principles and concepts to always keep in mind as a teacher. And it's meant to remind teachers that their work is important, as it is. I, for one, am forever grateful for its wisdom. Thank you Shirley Garcia and David Cottrell!

[Jackie · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not sure what this booklet is supposed to accomplish...encouragement, evidence, reinforcement? Garcia and Cottrell attempt to explain to teachers why they are relevant in their students' lives. I think most teachers know this already...at least, the good ones do. It has a mildly patronizing tone and it goes on and on, frequently repeating the same theme over and over. I am having a difficult time trying to determine what its true goal is.

[Spacek Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the best book written by David Cottrell that I've read. It speaks from the voice of students talking with their teacher. All teachers should read this book to get a summary of how they should approach the relationship building needed to be a great teacher. Then, they should take every word to heart, seeing themselves as the compassionate teacher they need to be.

[Sarah · Rating 2 out of 5]

Each section has blurbs and quotes related to a certain element of teaching (ex: "Accept nothing less than the best... from all of us" and "Take care of yourself"

Good reminders for things to be considering throughout the school year, but not as inspiring as I was hoping.

[Andy · Rating 1 out of 5]

Extremely annoying banter.