Dear Editor,

The classroom strategies used by teachers decades ago have become almost irrelevant. More and more we are hearing teachers saying that students today are harder to teach.

The truth is that students now have different perceptions and expectations of learning. As a result, many teachers now need to employ what is called ‘the basic moves of teaching’.

According to Green & Henriquez-Green, 2005, the basic moves of teaching are (a) having the classroom in a healthy, productive learning environment; (b) having the knowledge and the skill to set up an environment which includes being asked meaningful questions; and (c) knowing how to use assessment to ensure that learning has taken place.

The learning environment must ensure that all students are able to experience learning. Confidence must be displayed by the teacher in setting the tone for the class by using appropriate strategies, structures and techniques in engaging the minds of the students.

It is important that teachers “move” to have students experience peace of mind, which will facilitate mental stimulation and thus promote learning. Both students and their teachers must establish rules that govern their class. I do endorse the system of reward and punishment, as mutual respect and order must be maintained to support the new environment.

The question I have for teachers is: Are you prepared to answer your students’ questions?

Many teachers believe that not knowing the answers is a sign of weakness. But can a man know everything? Teachers must be prepared to provide answers, but if they genuinely don’t know, they must tell students that they will “check out the facts”, and get back to them.

Lyssette Hawthorne-Wilson

lysdave@yahoo.com