Dennis Shirley - Teachers Make a Difference

The speaker reflects on the significant impact Mr. Tim Isaacs, an English teacher at West Springfield High School in the 1970s, had on their life. Mr. Isaacs introduced students to American literature, including Thoreau's 'Walden,' which left a lasting impression. The speaker shares personal experiences at Walden Pond and expresses gratitude to Mr. Isaacs for his mentorship and for fostering a space for intellectual debate and growth.

Who was the teacher that had a significant impact on the narrator's life during high school?

• Mrs. Sarah Brown

• Mr. Tim Isaacs

• Mr. John Smith

• Ms. Emily Johnson

What was the focus of the course that Mr. Isaacs invited students to join?

• European History

• American Literature

• World Geography

• Modern Art

What is the significance of Walden Pond to the narrator?

• It inspired the name of the narrator's daughter.

• It was a location for school field trips.

• It was a place for family picnics.

• It was where the narrator learned to swim.

How did the narrator's classmate view Henry David Thoreau?

• As a famous scientist

• As a crazy dreamer

• As a brilliant philosopher

• As a talented musician

At the age of 60, how does the narrator perceive Henry David Thoreau?

• As a distant memory

• As a mentor and guide

• As an irrelevant figure

• As a fictional character