You will be amazed at how quickly your skills at creating excellent lesson plans will develop if you spend the time planning and researching ways to improve. It takes work and dedication to be a good teacher. In fact, the most frequent reply of successful teachers when asked, "What makes you such a great teacher?" is "I work at it!" Here are some ideas and resources to help you work at becoming a great teacher. Become an expert at evaluating Internet resources for lesson plan ideas, research and other information. A guide for helpful websites and sources can help you hone your skills. Thoroughly study the teacher-specific, student-specific and auxiliary materials that pertain to your class. There is no substitute for having an in-depth understanding of the materials you use with your students. Create a guide for your students to increase their participation in their own learning. A Sample Student Guide is available for you to use as a template for creating a useful document that can serve as a roadmap for their success. Learn to pace yourself. Don't allow yourself to get behind on the schedule you've created. Continually evaluate your plans and make modifications to successfully meet your goals. The time you have to accomplish your objectives with your students is very short. All discussions, assignments, homework, assessments, and projects should be related to the goals you have established for your students' progress. Take every opportunity you can to cheer your students on as you work together to have a successful school year.