How to Write an Apology Letter to a Teacher

Writing a letter of apology to a teacher is probably the first lesson you will learn in person to person diplomacy. Hopefully the following steps will help to get it right!

Steps   

  1. Start with "Dear <name of teacher>,"
  2. When you find yourself having to apologize to a teacher, it means there's been a breakdown of student teacher respect. What did you do wrong, or what did you fail to do? Describe these things in your letter, and state that you intend to apologize for them.
  3. If the problem is partly due to the teacher, don't point this out directly. If you can't point it out subtly, don't point it out at all. It makes it easier for someone to admit to a mistake if he or she isn't actively being accused of it.
  4. You'll probably be expected to say "it won't happen again", but to be convincing, you also have to say why it won't happen again. Say why whatever you're apologizing for happened in the first place, then say how you can prevent those conditions from happening again.
  5. Sign off with "Sincerely",and sign your name or the teacher won't think you're being genuine.
  6. Fold the letter carefully, place it into an envelope and put it on the teacher's desk.


Tips   

  • You may have to bury your pride when you apologize. At the same time however the apology will benefit you by improving your standings with the teaching staff. Pride gets you nothing, good relations can often become priceless.
  • If you have difficulty with wording your letter, ask a different teacher for assistance. They will know what is expected of you and be more than happy to help.


Warnings   

  • Do not do something wrong just so that you can write a letter of apology. You'll make a mistake soon enough. If you're really eager, apologize for being off sick (when you were not really sick).