On August 21, 2024, I found myself engaged in a series of teaching tasks that tested both my skills and patience. The day was particularly challenging, but it also provided valuable insights into my strengths and areas that require improvement.
The first class I took was with 9C, where I introduced the students to problems related to calendar math. Calendar math is a fascinating area that combines logical thinking with mathematical calculations, and it’s always interesting to see how students approach these problems. The students were eager to engage with the problems, which was encouraging. However, I noticed that while they were enthusiastic, there were moments when they struggled with understanding the concepts. This made me realize the importance of breaking down the problems into smaller, more manageable parts to ensure that all students could follow along.
As I taught, I became acutely aware of my blackboard skills, which are not yet where I want them to be. The clarity of my writing, the organization of the content on the board, and the pace at which I presented the information are all aspects that need refinement. A well-organized blackboard can significantly enhance a lesson, making it easier for students to follow and understand. I’ve decided that I need to practice more, perhaps by rehearsing my board work before class or even taking some time to watch experienced teachers and how they manage their blackboard usage.
After the class with 9C, I moved on to teach 8A, where the topic was the outer angles of polygons. This is a fundamental concept in geometry, and understanding it is crucial for students as they advance in their studies. The students in 8A were generally attentive and seemed to grasp the concept relatively quickly. However, there were still a few who found the idea of exterior angles a bit abstract. To address this, I used diagrams and visual aids to help them visualize the concept better. This seemed to help, but I realized that I need to develop more creative ways to explain such concepts to ensure that every student, regardless of their learning style, can understand.
One of the challenges I faced during this class was managing my frustration when some students struggled with the material. It’s something I’ve been aware of for a while, and today it became clear that I need to work on controlling my emotions in the classroom. Patience is key when teaching, and it’s something I need to cultivate more actively. I want to create a classroom environment where students feel comfortable making mistakes and asking questions without fear of judgment or frustration from me. This is essential not just for their learning but also for their confidence.
The day didn’t end there. I also had a substitution period with 6C, which turned out to be an unexpected opportunity to teach a different topic. I decided to focus on the different types of fractions. Fractions are a fundamental part of mathematics, and it’s crucial for students to have a strong understanding of them as they progress in their education. The students in 6C were curious and eager to learn, which made the session enjoyable. However, explaining the different types of fractions in a way that was both engaging and easy to understand was a bit challenging. I tried to use everyday examples to illustrate the concepts, which seemed to resonate with them. For instance, I compared fractions to slices of pizza, which helped the students visualize and understand the concept better.
Reflecting on the day, I’ve come to realize that teaching is not just about delivering content; it’s about connecting with students, understanding their needs, and adapting your methods to meet those needs. It’s also about continuous self-improvement. My blackboard skills, for instance, are something I need to work on. A well-organized blackboard can serve as a powerful tool in teaching, helping to clarify complex concepts and keep the lesson on track. I plan to invest more time in improving these skills, possibly by seeking feedback from colleagues or even practicing at home.
In addition to my blackboard skills, controlling my anger is another area I need to focus on. Teaching can be stressful, especially when students don’t understand a concept that seems straightforward to me. However, I’ve realized that getting frustrated doesn’t help anyone. Instead, I need to develop strategies to remain calm and patient, even when things aren’t going as planned. This might involve taking deep breaths, reminding myself that everyone learns at their own pace, or even stepping back for a moment to regain my composure before continuing.
Moreover, I’ve learned the importance of being adaptable. The substitution period with 6C was a perfect example of this. I hadn’t planned to teach fractions that day, but when the opportunity arose, I had to quickly think on my feet and come up with a lesson that was both informative and engaging. It’s moments like these that remind me of the importance of being flexible and prepared to tackle any challenge that comes my way.
In conclusion, August 21, 2024, was a day of learning and growth for me as a teacher. While there were challenges, such as improving my blackboard skills and controlling my emotions, there were also successes, like engaging with students on complex mathematical concepts and adapting to unexpected teaching situations. I’m committed to continuing my journey of self-improvement, both for my sake and for the sake of my students. By honing my skills and developing greater patience and adaptability, I believe I can become a more effective and compassionate educator.
