My First Day of Teaching Practice at St. Mary's HSS Pattom: A Journey of Learning and Growth

 Becoming a student teacher at St. Mary's Higher Secondary School in Pattom was an exciting yet nerve-wracking experience for me. As I embarked on my journey into the world of teaching, the first day of my teaching practice was filled with anticipation and excitement. I had been assigned to take a class 9 chemistry session, and my goal was to create an engaging and activity-oriented learning experience for the students. In this blog, I will share my reflections on that memorable day, highlighting the challenges, accomplishments, and lessons learned.

The First Day Nerves

Walking into the school on my first day as a student teacher, I couldn't help but feel a mixture of nervousness and excitement. The corridors were bustling with students, and the atmosphere was charged with energy. I had prepared meticulously for this day, ensuring that I had a well-structured activity card in hand to engage the students effectively.

Class 9 Chemistry: My First Challenge

My assigned class was a group of bright class 9 students, eager to learn. However, I couldn't help but feel the weight of responsibility as I stepped into the classroom to teach chemistry. The topic for the day was a challenging one, and I knew I had to make it interesting to capture the students' attention.

The Activity-Oriented Approach

I firmly believed in the power of hands-on learning, so I had designed an activity-oriented class. The activity involved a simple chemical reaction that would illustrate a fundamental concept in chemistry. The students were divided into groups, and each group had a set of chemicals and equipment to perform the experiment. As a student teacher, I was thrilled to see the students engaged in the activity, working together, and asking questions.

Supporting My Mentor Teacher

Apart from conducting my class, I also had the opportunity to assist my mentor teacher in preparing a PowerPoint presentation and video for another class. This experience allowed me to observe the intricacies of lesson planning and the importance of multimedia tools in enhancing the teaching-learning process.

Challenges and Learning

Classroom Management: One of the challenges I encountered was maintaining discipline while the students were engrossed in the activity. It was essential to strike a balance between allowing them to explore and ensuring a controlled environment for safety.

Adaptability: I learned the importance of adaptability in teaching. Sometimes, even the best-prepared lesson plans may need adjustments on the spot, depending on the students' comprehension and engagement levels.

Time Management: Balancing my time between conducting my class and assisting my mentor teacher required effective time management. I had to learn to prioritize tasks and make the most of every minute.

Feedback and Reflection: After the class, I received feedback from my mentor teacher, which was invaluable. Reflecting on my teaching practice allowed me to identify areas for improvement and growth.

Conclusion

The first day of my teaching practice at St. Mary's HSS Pattom was a day of many firsts and valuable lessons. It marked the beginning of my journey as a teacher, a journey filled with challenges and rewards. Engaging the students through an activity-oriented approach, supporting my mentor teacher, and overcoming nervousness were all part of the learning experience.

As I look back on that day, I can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to learn and grow in such a nurturing environment. Each day in the classroom brings new experiences and a chance to make a positive impact on the lives of young learners. My first day of teaching practice was just the beginning, and I am excited to continue this journey of education and self-discovery.