Question

Explain in brief the theme of 'To Sir, With Love'.

Answer in about 50 words to the question given below:

Consider ‘student-teacher relationship’ as one of the themes of ‘To Sir With Love’.

Answer 1

The primary theme of the novel is the student-teacher relationship. When Braithwaite first accepts his job as a teacher at Greenslade School, he is met with a bunch of arrogant, disrespectful and illmannered students who were well-known for their bad behaviour. Though angry and frustrated at first, Braithwaite eventually learns to be patient and tolerant towards their antics and develops a strong bond with each of them. Braithwaite is not only concerned with their academic progress but also takes a keen interest in their development as individuals. He even takes the time to find out more about their backgrounds and tries to understand the reasons for their behaviour. More importantly, he builds a relationship with the students, which is based on mutual respect. Braithwaite addresses the girls as ‘Miss’ and the boys by their last name and in turn asks the students to refer to him as ‘Sir’, relaying the message that a healthy student-teacher relationship is one which involves both, give and take. Though this method is initially resisted by the students, they eventually warm up to it. This can be clearly seen when Braithwaite expresses his appreciation of Denham addressing the senior girls as ‘Miss’. The extract highlights the importance of a teacher’s role in the lives of his/her students. Braithwaite’s influence extends far beyond his academic role. By choosing not to give up on his students, Braithwaite sets an example for how a teacher should be someone who is tolerant and understanding. Through Braithwaite’s role in shaping the personalities of his students, the extract demonstrates that a teacher’s work is not merely limited to the classroom. An important aspect of the student-teacher relationship is also the freedom to be honest. Braithwaite encourages his students to be honest and fearless, which is clearly demonstrated in Denham’s respectful but blunt criticism of the P.T. class, thus conveying the idea that students must be active participants in their own progress. His method of developing a relationship based on mutual respect is effective and results in the transformation of his students from mischievous children to young adults. Braithwaite witnesses this transformation with pride as he watches his students present the class report and admires them for the progress that they have made.

Answer 2

The relationship between a teacher and student, as well as the student council's biannual report, are the themes of "To Sir, With Love." It shows how the behaviour of the children has improved and how confident they are becoming. The contact between students and teachers is also shown to be free.