Adam Wright

Mr. Neuburger

Eng 102-132

11 February 2011

Miss Moore

Extraordinary Teacher

Toni Cade Bambara’s essay “The Lesson”, introduces a character whose teaching style is

very effective. By one of the key characters, Miss Moore, the author displays how letting the

kids answer their own questions provides for a very effective teaching method. For example,

Miss Moore challenges her students by asking them tough questions, and making them search for

answers themselves. In fact, there are several instances where her students get upset because

they have to put some work into getting their answers. Bambara writes, “What I want to

know,” I says to Miss Moore though I never talk to her, I wouldn’t give the bitch that

satisfaction, “is how much a real boat costs? I figure a thousand’d get you a yacht any day.”

Why don’t you check that out,” she says, “and report back to the group?” Which really pains my

ass.” (12) In addition, Miss Moore also asks questions like “How long’d take for Big Butt and

Junebug to save up their allowances.” (10) In conclusion, the character Miss Moore is very

effective in teaching her students by letting them think and answer questions for themselves.

Bambara, Toni Cade. "The Lesson." Power of Language, Language of Power. New York:

Pearson Custom, 2009. 7-14.