A Day in the Life of a Student Teacher: Teaching Practice at St. Mary's HSS Pattom
As a student teacher, the journey through teaching practice is often filled with excitement, challenges, and unforgettable moments. One such memorable day was the 14th day of my teaching practice at St. Mary's Higher Secondary School, Pattom, where I had the privilege of teaching a 9th-grade chemistry class. On this particular day, I decided to dive into the fascinating world of oxygen, the breath of life, using engaging videos and captivating images to make the lesson come alive for my students.
The Lesson Plan
My fourth-period class was brimming with curious minds eager to learn. The topic of the day was oxygen, a fundamental element essential for life on Earth. I wanted to make this lesson memorable, so I began with a captivating video that showcased the importance of oxygen in a way that would pique the students' interest. The video featured breathtaking visuals of nature, combustion, and human biology, all highlighting the significance of oxygen in our lives.
As the video concluded, I segued into a discussion, encouraging the students to share their thoughts and questions. This interactive approach fostered a sense of involvement and curiosity among the students, setting the stage for a dynamic learning experience.
To reinforce the concepts, I used a series of vivid images and infographics. These visuals helped students grasp abstract ideas and made the topic more relatable. For instance, I showed images of oxygen molecules in the atmosphere, the role of oxygen in respiration, and its importance in supporting combustion. This visual aid helped students connect theoretical knowledge with real-life applications.
Review Questions and Follow-up Activities
To gauge the students' understanding and stimulate critical thinking, I prepared a set of review questions for them. Here are some of the questions:
What is the chemical symbol for oxygen, and what is its atomic number?
Describe two essential functions of oxygen in our bodies.
How does oxygen support combustion? Provide an example.
Can you explain why oxygen is considered the "breath of life"?
What are the consequences of oxygen depletion in the atmosphere?
After discussing the review questions, I assigned follow-up activities to reinforce the concepts:
Oxygen Experiment: I encouraged students to conduct a simple experiment at home or in the school lab to observe the production of oxygen through the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide using a catalyst like manganese dioxide. They were asked to record their observations and write a short report on the experiment's findings.
Create an Oxygen Infographic: In preparation for the upcoming science fest, students were tasked with creating an infographic that visually explains the importance of oxygen in different aspects of life. This activity not only reinforced their knowledge but also honed their creative skills.
Supporting Tasks
Beyond the classroom, I took the opportunity to assist students in setting up their experiments for the upcoming science fest. I provided guidance, ensured safety measures were in place, and answered their questions. Additionally, I helped students create eye-catching charts and posters to showcase their experiments effectively. It was fulfilling to see their enthusiasm and dedication to presenting their scientific projects.
In conclusion, the 14th day of my teaching practice at St. Mary's HSS Pattom was a memorable one. Teaching the significance of oxygen using engaging multimedia and interactive discussions allowed me to connect with my students on a deeper level. The review questions and follow-up activities were designed to reinforce their learning and spark their curiosity further. Moreover, supporting students in their science fest preparations added a practical dimension to my role as a student teacher, and it was a privilege to witness their scientific endeavors take shape. These experiences have undoubtedly enriched my journey as a future educator, reminding me of the transformative power of education and the joy of sharing knowledge
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