Howard Rheingold - Teachers Make a Difference

The speaker shares experiences with two influential teachers from their childhood. Initially, they disliked school and were a troublemaker, but Mrs. Birch, a 5th-grade teacher, encouraged their interest in writing. The school environment in the 1950s was strict, and those who didn't fit in were sent to the art room, where the speaker's mother taught. The art room was a place of creative freedom, which significantly shaped the speaker's life. The speaker reflects on the importance of creative expression and the impact of supportive teachers.

What activity did the narrator's new teacher, Mrs. Birch, encourage him to do?

• Interview the principal

• Paint a picture

• Solve a math problem

• Write a poem

Why did the narrator consider himself a troublemaker in school?

• He was always late to class

• He couldn't sit still for long periods

• He failed his exams

• He didn't like his teachers

What was the environment like in the art room according to the narrator?

• Chaotic and creative

• Quiet and peaceful

• Strict and orderly

• Boring and dull

What was Mrs. Ron Gold's belief about art and creativity?

• Art is not important in education

• Art should be taught with strict rules

• Only talented people can be artists

• Everyone is an artist and should express themselves

How did Mrs. Ron Gold's teaching philosophy impact the narrator?

• It made him dislike art

• It changed and shaped his entire life

• It made him want to become an art teacher

• It had no impact on him