Reflections on Teaching Practice at St. Mary's HSS Pattom: The 30th Day

 As a student teacher at St. Mary's Higher Secondary School in Pattom, the 30th day of my teaching practice was a remarkable experience that allowed me to grow both personally and professionally. On this particular day, my focus was on conducting an achievement test for the ninth-grade students, covering the topic of current electricity. Additionally, I had the responsibility of preparing students to showcase some experiments for a video recording. The day was not just about imparting knowledge but also about supporting my fellow student teacher, Veena, in conducting her health education class. Here, I'd like to share my reflections on this memorable day.

Conducting the Achievement Test:

The day began with a mix of excitement and nervousness as I prepared to conduct an achievement test on the topic of current electricity. It was a crucial assessment, and I was determined to create an environment that would allow my students to perform at their best. As I distributed the test papers and explained the instructions, I couldn't help but feel the weight of responsibility on my shoulders.

One of the challenges I faced was ensuring that the test was fair and comprehensive. I had to strike a balance between testing their understanding of the material and not overwhelming them. This experience taught me the importance of careful test design and clear communication, essential skills for any teacher.

The test itself revealed the varying levels of comprehension among the students. Some answered confidently, while others struggled. This diversity highlighted the need for differentiated teaching strategies and the importance of addressing individual learning needs.

Preparing for Experiments:

After the test, I shifted my focus to preparing students for demonstrating experiments related to current electricity for a video recording. This was an exciting opportunity to make learning more engaging and hands-on. I was amazed by the students' enthusiasm and curiosity as they eagerly gathered around to learn and participate in the experiments.

Preparing the experiments required meticulous planning and attention to safety. I had to ensure that the students understood not only the procedures but also the underlying scientific principles. This experience reinforced the idea that practical demonstrations can greatly enhance students' understanding of complex concepts.

Supporting Veena in Her Class:

In addition to my own responsibilities, I had the privilege of supporting my fellow student teacher, Veena, as she conducted her health education class. Collaboration and teamwork are essential in any teaching environment, and I was glad to be a part of her session.

Veena's class focused on promoting a healthy lifestyle, and her interactive teaching methods engaged the students effectively. It was inspiring to see how different teaching styles and approaches can captivate students' attention and facilitate their learning. This reinforced the notion that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to teaching, and as educators, we must adapt to the needs of our students.

Conclusion:

The 30th day of my teaching practice at St. Mary's HSS Pattom was a day filled with valuable experiences and lessons. It emphasized the importance of effective test design, hands-on learning through experiments, and the significance of collaboration among teachers. It was a day that showcased the joys and challenges of being an educator, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of it. As I continue my journey towards becoming a teacher, I carry these lessons with me, knowing that they will shape my future practice and make me a more effective and empathetic educator.