Maxims / Principles of Teaching – To achieve educational goals, teachers follow certain guiding principles called maxims of teaching. These are universal truths discovered through experience that help teachers organize and deliver lessons effectively.

For a teacher to be efficient, two things are essential:

• Complete knowledge of the subject matter
• Scientific knowledge of teaching methods to effectively communicate with students

Teachers aim to actively involve learners by using methods, rules, and principles that make lessons clear, interesting, and easy to understand.

Important Maxims of Teaching

From Known to Unknown
Start with what students already know and link new information to it. This makes learning clearer and easier.

From Simple to Complex
Present simple ideas first, then gradually move to more complex ones to maintain interest and build confidence.

From Concrete to Abstract
Teach using tangible, sensory experiences first, then move to abstract concepts to enhance understanding and retention.

From Analysis to Synthesis
Begin by breaking down a topic into parts (analysis) before combining them into a whole (synthesis) for better comprehension.

From Particular to General
Start with specific examples and then guide students to generalize principles or rules.

From Empirical to Rational
Use direct observation and experience (empirical) before explaining the reasoning behind concepts (rational).

From Induction to Deduction
Induction: Derive general rules from specific examples.
Deduction: Apply general rules to specific cases.
Teaching usually progresses from induction to deduction.

From Psychological to Logical
Respect the learner’s interests, abilities, and developmental stage (psychological), then arrange content logically.

From Actual to Representative
Use real objects and experiences first; use pictures, models, or simulations as secondary aids, especially with younger learners.

From Whole to Parts
Present the entire concept first, then break it down into parts for detailed study, promoting better understanding.

From Definite to Indefinite
Begin with clear, definite facts and ideas, then move to more general or indefinite concepts.

Final Notes

These maxims serve as useful guidelines, especially for new teachers.

A teacher should master and adapt these principles based on classroom situations, using them flexibly rather than rigidly.

Understanding these maxims helps make teaching more systematic, effective, and enjoyable.