- Origin myths: Some folk tales and legends depict teachers receiving apples from students as a symbol of appreciation. However, these stories are mostly fictional and serve to illustrate the importance of education.
- Symbolic gesture: Apples can symbolize knowledge, wisdom, and intellectual enlightenment, making them a suitable symbol of appreciation for educators. However, it's worth noting that this perception is not universal.
- Misinterpretation of the idiom "the apple of my eye": This phrase is sometimes interpreted as referring to a prized student, leading to the idea of giving apples to teachers. However, the idiom refers to something or someone cherished and valued, not necessarily a student-teacher relationship.
In general, giving apples to teachers is not a widespread tradition or customary practice. Many teachers appreciate tokens of appreciation from their students, but the specific gifts might vary based on personal preferences and local customs.