| Middle school classrooms are often characterized by large class sizes, shortened class periods, and heavy teacher workloads. Middle school teachers are responsible for teaching approximately 165 students every day. Teachers see each student in a class of approximately 32 other students for about 45 to 50 minutes each day. After the transition from elementary to middle school many students become unengaged, unmotivated, and uninterested in school. Although it is but one aspect of the solution, positive relationships between teachers and students can greatly impact student motivation and learning. Yet, how do teachers foster positive relationships with their students in light of large class sizes, shortened class periods, and heavy time constraints that many teachers face in today's middle schools? This inquiry will highlight ways in which middle school teachers actively pursue positive relationships with their students. |
