Have students interview their favorite teacher to find out why they like to teach and what characteristics they think a good teacher should have. Record the attributes on the chalk board as students report their findings. Have students add attributes to the list that they think are important.

Show the TV Program  - Awakening Joy: Performing Arts Teacher
 

In this activity the students take on the role of the teacher. Each student will pick one of the professions featured in this series (or another performing arts job) and teach the rest of the class what it takes to get that job. The students should research how many jobs are in the field, what training or education is necessary, how much it pays, where the jobs are located, and any other pertinent information. They can use the school library resources or go to the Shortcuts To Happiness web site, http://www.WesternReservePublicMedia.org/shortcut, to find this information.

The students should use the attributes listed from their interviews and observations of teachers to develop a grading rubric. 

Encourage students to address the three learning styles present in every classroom (visual, aural, and kinesthetic). They shouldn’t just give a speech, but also add visuals and activities that help explain their topic. For instance, have them develop a Power Point presentation using visuals taken from the Web. If they want to use a physical activity to help them teach about their profession, they can use the Shortcuts To Happiness web site, http://www.WesternReservePublicMedia.org/shortcut, to find classroom activities.

Students can find information about learning styles at www.WesternReservePublicMedia.org/TSTQUEST/LSTYLES.HTM