What is the Most Teacherly Thing Ever?: Unveiling Red Ink and Beyond

The most teacherly thing, in my opinion, is the red ink pen. It is

quintessential, a symbol so ingrained in the teaching experience that it feels like an emblem. Every teacher, much like an essential part of a toolkit, carries it with them. The red ink pen is more than just a writing implement; it is a visual cue that distinguishes our corrections from the students' work. Such visibility in the midst of blue or black ink highlights mistakes and shortcomings, making red ink a defining hallmark of a teacher's identity.

The Symbolism of Red Ink

Students are strictly forbidden to use red ink, as it is a

prohibition enforcing the notion that it belongs to teachers alone. If you have a predilection for red ink, it is a

signal that you possess the inherent tendencies of a teacher. Whether it's the sight or the feel of that pen, it serves as a testament to the commitment to pedagogical precision and stature.

Arguments for and Against Using Red Ink

While some argue against the use of red ink, on the grounds of discouraging creativity or fostering a negative perception of mistakes, I believe it imparts a vital lesson. The visible reminders of errors serve as impetuses, ensuring that students not only remember their mistakes but also strive to correct them. Red ink is not a punitive measure, but a means to

teach perseverance and self-correction.

The Noisy Lab and the Concept of 'Be Quiet'

In my experience as a teacher of a 35-student science lab, the phrase "be quiet" takes on a

narrative significance. When students are engrossed in group experiments, communication is crucial. Despite the volume, thirty-five excited scientists attempting to use their "quiet voice" still contribute to a noisy environment. Teachers must often

mediate between the need for learning and the need to maintain a level of quietness. This dynamic underscores the multifaceted nature of teaching in a practical, noisy setting.

Additional Teacherly Things

Other things that encapsulate the essence of a teacher include:

Diagnosing the "teacher bladder" – the sudden pressure to go to the bathroom before parental meetings. The universal "look" that reflects the shared experience of being a teacher, an instantly recognizable identifier among peers and colleagues.

These elements, combined with the ubiquitous red ink pen, form a

portrait of the teaching profession, a profession that demands both precision and adaptability, patience and perseverance. Whether in a bustling lab or a calm classroom, the marks made with a red ink pen and the interactions with students remain both

memorable and impactful.

So, the next time someone asks what the most 'teacherly' thing is, remember the red ink pen, the 'be quiet' command, the 'teacher bladder', and the 'look' imbued within the fabric of teaching life. These are the elements that make teaching not just a job, but a calling. Good luck in your pursuits!