How to Impress College TAs and Instructors
Asking Questions and Other Tips for Behaving Like an A Student
Jul 16, 2009
Exam grades and paper grades are definite factors in determining a college student's term grade. However, if a student’s final grade falls between two letter grades, then other factors can influence the instructor’s decision to choose one grade over another. These factors, like arriving early to class, can impress instructors and motivate them to choose the better letter grade, which will help students earn good grades in college.
Arrive to Class Ten Minutes Before the Start Time
For some instructors, if a student arrives to class at the exact start time, then it’s almost as if the student is late, because the student will need to take a few moments to pull out his notebook, thus delaying the start time. Therefore, students should arrive about ten minutes before the start time so that they’re prepared to begin the class whenever the instructor is ready to start.
Always Turn in Homework Assignments and Follow the Directions
One of the easiest ways to impress instructors is to always turn in homework assignments. When a student always turns in his or her homework on time, it shows the instructor that the student is responsible and that he or she cares about the course. Additionally, students who always follow the instructions for assignments (e.g. paper length) also impress their instructors.
Participate in Class Discussions and Answer Questions Raised by the Instructor
In addition to earning participation points, students who participate in class discussions impress their instructors by demonstrating their understanding of the course material. This is also true of students who answer questions raised by their instructors. Participating in discussions and answering questions also shows instructors that a student has not only studied the course material but also thought about the material.
Relate the Current Reading Assignment to an Earlier Reading Assignment
During class discussions on reading assignments, students can impress their instructors by relating the current reading assignment to a past reading assignment. This shows the instructor that the student has been completing all of the reading assignments, and it also shows the instructor that the student has been synthesizing the information. Instead of merely reading the assignments, the student is contemplating their meaning.
When trying to impress their instructors, students should participate in class discussions, and, during these class discussions, the students should try to relate the current reading assignment to an earlier reading assignment. Students should also turn in their homework assignments on time and follow the directions. And, they should arrive to class about ten minutes before the start time.
 |
