Who was Helen Keller's teacher?

• A. Anne Sullivan
• B. Maria Montessori
• C. Elizabeth Farrell
• D. Margaret Mead

Answer: (A)

This item tests knowledge of the educator who made the pivotal difference in Helen Keller’s learning. Anne Sullivan was Keller’s teacher and lifelong companion. Sullivan taught through touch, spelling words into Keller’s hand with the manual alphabet and linking those signs to objects and actions. The famous breakthrough moment came at a water pump, when Keller understood that the signs corresponded to the concept she felt as water flowed over her hand. From there, Keller learned to read Braille, write, and even speak, eventually becoming a renowned author and advocate for people with disabilities. The other names are notable figures in education or related fields, but they are not associated with Keller’s education.