Zhou Min's class is filled with laughter as she takes her students for an English lesson. The teacher from Beijing No.4 High School is a big favorite with the teenagers.

"I like her class very much because her lessons are lively and interesting," said Tang Tang, a Senior 3 student. "Sometimes she even lets us host the class."

Zhou chose, for instance, several students to host the reading of 21st Century Teens.

Students could freely express their opinions in discussions and debates, while Zhou commented on their performances.

September 10 is Teachers' Day. There are many great teachers throughout China, and every year a few get recognized for their valuable work.

Last year, Zhou, 27, was given the Outstanding Teacher of the School award. Her encouraging teaching style makes students feel more confident about their English skills.

Nowadays, more and more teachers like Zhou have brought new ways of teaching to the classrooms.

Cairenlamao, 39, a Tibetan maths teacher in No.1 Nationality Middle School in Qinghai's Yushu County has also done much to help her students. She builds feelings of creativity and happiness in her lessons.

"She encourages us to think in totally different ways. Our teacher often says to us: 'Try to let cocks lay eggs and hens crow'," said Danzhouzhuoga, a Senior 3 student.

Cairenlamao will be recognized for her work this year when she wins the title of Outstanding Teacher of Qinghai.

(21st Century September 9, 2003)