Lessons for Life: Words I Share with My Students In my classroom

We talk about more than just the curriculum—we talk about life. Here are some lessons I encourage my students to live by.

Mark Martin

9/18/20241 min read

They’re simple, yet powerful reminders that can help them grow, not just as learners, but as people.

If you made a mistake, apologise.👍🏾

Owning up shows strength, not weakness. Mistakes happen, and saying sorry is the first step towards making things right.

If you are appreciative, show it. 🤗

Gratitude isn’t just about words; it’s about actions. Let people know when you value them.

If you are stuck, ask for help. 🆘

There’s no shame in needing support. Asking for help shows courage, not failure.

If you were mistreated, speak up. 🗣️

Your voice matters. Don’t hesitate to stand up for yourself and others when things aren’t right.

If you learn something new, teach others. 📚

Sharing what you know empowers not just you, but everyone around you. Be generous with your knowledge.

If someone doubts your skills, keep going. 🚀

Prove them wrong by persisting, not by giving up. Your journey is yours, and it’s not defined by others’ opinions.

If something isn’t working, change it. 🔄

Don’t be afraid to make a change. Adapting to challenges is how we grow and find better paths.

These aren’t just lessons for students—they’re for everyone. Whether in the classroom or out in the world, these simple actions can make all the difference in how we connect, grow, and move forward.

"My Teaching Routine" book takes you on a journey. It's not a linear book or one with a fixed narrative sequence which requires you to start at the beginning. The book takes you through different phases of the classroom and gets you to think about each stage and process."