My Third Grade Teacher

My third grade teacher was a passionate person who I will never forget. First, she encouraged me to participate in class. For instance, she praised me whenever I answered in class, regardless if it was good or not. She gave me a “grape” when I got the correct answer, cleaned the class room, or did a good job on my homework. The grapes were not real; they were drawn on a pretty piece of paper which encouraged me to participate in class because if I filled up the “basket” with grapes, I got a reward. Second, she made me have pride in myself. For example, she praised my drawing, and, as a result, my classmates followed my advice in team projects and extra class after school. Also, she gave me a chance to act for a school video which we filmed to use as teaching material in another city. The chance helped me to get more pride in myself because I was chosen out of many school mates. It made me think of myself as a special person. Now, when I am depressed, I remind myself of her lesson: keep pride in yourself and engage in life.