Characteristics of a Good Teacher in the United States
 

To get a better idea of what Americans consider good teaching, interview someone from your academic department and ask the following question.
 
 
 

"In your opinion, what three things make a good teacher?"
 
 
 

Write down the results of this interview and be prepared to give a three minute presentation on the information you have gathered. Make sure to include appropriate transitions in your speech.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

People in the U.S. are often busy, so it is considered polite to first ask them if they have time to help you and then to make the request. Some typical expressions you may want to use as you approach an American for an interview are:

1. "I was wondering if you might have a few minutes to answer some questions I have for my English 104 class. It shouldn't take any time at all."

2. "Do you have a few minutes to spare? I need to interview someone from my department for my English class."

3. "I was hoping I could interview you for an assignment I have in my English class. Would that be OK? It will only take a few minutes of your time."