David Stoloff - Teachers Make a Difference - Mr. Wagner

The transcript recounts a personal story of a student's experience with a teacher, Mr. Wagner, who recognized the student's writing talent in fifth grade. This recognition, particularly for a Thanksgiving essay, led to a public reading that helped the student overcome shyness and gain confidence. Years later, the student thanked Mr. Wagner, who seemed unaware of the profound impact he had. The narrative highlights the often-unrecognized influence teachers have on their students' lives and the power of teaching and learning.

What was the narrator's initial impression of Mr. Wagner?

• He was indifferent to students.

• He disliked prepositional phrases.

• He appreciated the narrator's writing.

• He was a strict teacher.

How did Mr. Wagner help the narrator during Thanksgiving?

• By organizing a class trip.

• By giving extra homework.

• By recognizing the narrator's essay.

• By ignoring the narrator's work.

What was the outcome of the narrator's essay being read aloud?

• It led to a new friendship.

• It helped the narrator gain confidence.

• It was forgotten by everyone.

• It made the narrator more shy.

What did the narrator do when they met Mr. Wagner years later?

• Complained about school.

• Thanked him for his influence.

• Ignored him.

• Asked for more assignments.

What realization does the narrator have about teachers?

• They always remember every student.

• They often forget their impact on students.

• They are always strict.

• They dislike teaching.