The Eleven Commandments of Good Teaching

by Vickie Gill

Overview

Vickie Gill's time-tested wisdom and practical advice provides the insight teachers need to develop a dynamic, successful classroom. This third edition of her bestseller contains new material that helps teachers work with new technologies, evolving social climates, limited budgets, and standardized testing. Drawing on lessons learned from 21 joyous years of teaching, Gill illustrates each commandment with authentic classroom stories and concrete guidance for staying enthusiastic and committed to excellence. The suggestions show how to:
• Ask for support from your principal or staff
• Reach difficult-to-teach students
• Choose your battles carefully
• Maintain an open mind and a flexible attitude
• Focus on why you became a teacher in the first place
Rediscover your profound joy for teaching, students, and what Gill calls "the greatest of all professions."

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781634503204
Publisher:	Skyhorse
Publication date:	11/17/2015
Edition description:	Reprint
Pages:	128
Product dimensions:	5.90(w) x 8.90(h) x 0.50(d)

About the Author

Vickie Gill has taught high school English, reading, and journalism for 30 years in both California and Tennessee. Gill has won several teaching and community service honors and was a finalist for Tennessee State Teacher of the Year 2000. She is currently teach­ing part-time and works as a consultant for a school district in central California. She has a BA in English from San Jose State University and an MEd from Vanderbilt University.

Table of Contents

Preface vii

Acknowledgments ix

About the Author xi

1 Thou Shalt Have a Calling to Teach 1

2 Thou Shalt Demonstrate and Project the Joy of Learning 7

3 Thou Shalt Keep Your Eyes on the Prize 13

4 Thou Shalt Be Organized and Accountable 23

5 Thou Shalt Ask and Ye May Receive 33

6 Thou Shalt Be Fair and Prepared 41

7 Thou Shalt Use Some Common Sense 55

8 Thou Shalt Be Open-Minded and Flexible 63

9 Thou Shalt Not Work in Fear 75

10 Thou Shalt Raise Your Expectations 85

11 Thou Shalt Keep Things in Perspective 93

Epilogue 99

References 105

Suggested Reading 107

Index 109

Editorial Reviews

This book is full of good, commonsense basics that apply not just to teaching but to life. Too often these practices are forgotten with the stresses of day-to-day living. Vickie Gill has an easy-to-read style that makes this book as much of a page-turner as any popular novel.

Alexis Ludewig

With a voice that is wise and accessible and not without humor, Vickie Gill demystifies classroom management, offers tangible tips and advice, and helps reignite the joy and passion of teaching. Whether you are a new teacher just finding your way or an experienced one in need of a nudge, this little classic is required reading.

Cynthia Carbone Ward

A book about the fearless joy, the common sense, and the B.S. detector necessary for good teaching. Brava!

Michelle Broussard

The author’s use of personal experiences and how they impacted her teaching practice serve as a powerful model for readers’ own reflection and commitment to change.

Karen Tichy

Vickie Gill has the uncanny ability to inspire and get the best out of just about any kind of student. She makes it about every individual kid, and the results are remarkable. Her insights should prove invaluable for any teacher wanting to improve his or her craft.

Mark Terry

"This book is a personal testimony of teaching using passion, wisdom, and diligence, and of what a successful classroom looks like. "

Karen Hayes

This book is great for new teachers who are just starting out as well as veteran teachers who are determined to keep up with the ever-changing classroom. It is a winner for anyone who loves teaching and who cares about helping students reach beyond expectations.

Gayla Le May

“This book is great for new teachers who are just starting out as well as veteran teachers who are determined to keep up with the ever-changing classroom. It is a winner for anyone who loves teaching and who cares about helping students reach beyond expectations.”

Gayla LeMay