What Makes a Recommendation Good?

What exactly should a recommendation say in order for it to make an impression and favorably affect the applicant? My french teacher gave me the letter she wrote so that I could read it and it sounded good to me, but I don’t know what admissions commitees are looking for.

<p>It says something besides this is the best student i've ever had, they're a strong worker/diligent, they got A's in my class, it has to have a personal touch and tell something about you they couldn't tell by looking at your grades</p>

<p>They want to see what kind of a student you are. Do you voice your opinions? Do you study hard? Put forth best effort? Contribute to learning environment? Help others when they don't understand? et cetera, et cetera.</p>

<p>My teacher said that I was in the top 1% of students she has ever taught (24 years). She also talked about how I studied things beyond the curriculum and how I was leader in her class, taking time to help the slower kids, etc. Is that what they want to hear?</p>

<p>Yes, exactly</p>

<p>Sounds perfect</p>