Day 55 : School Internship Phase 1

On October 29, 2024, my teaching day was both engaging and filled with diverse activities across different age groups. My first assignment was with the students of 7C, where I introduced the topic of exponents. This topic, while seemingly straightforward, required me to simplify mathematical terms in ways that would keep the students attentive and curious. We began by discussing the basics of powers and exponents, such as the fundamental difference between the base and the exponent. It was important to lay down these basics, as they are the foundation of many higher-level mathematical operations. I made a point to relate these ideas to everyday concepts—such as squares and cubes—to make the idea of repeated multiplication more approachable. Through practice exercises, the students experimented with small numbers, which boosted their understanding. By the end of the class, I was pleased to see their confidence growing as they worked through the problems.

After my time with 7C, I moved to 6C, where I had a very different experience awaiting me. Instead of mathematical problems, this session was dedicated to storytelling, specifically about the life of Bhagat Singh. Bhagat Singh's story is both inspiring and impactful, and I wanted to bring his passion for freedom and justice alive for the students. I began by setting the historical context of India’s freedom struggle, introducing the students to the challenges the country faced during British rule. As I narrated Bhagat Singh’s early life, his bravery, and the powerful role he played in India’s quest for independence, I noticed the students' interest peak. Their eyes sparkled with curiosity, and several of them asked questions about his decisions and the sacrifices he made. I included some well-known incidents—like Bhagat Singh’s response to the British government and his determination to inspire people with his strong belief in equality and freedom. The discussion evolved into an interactive dialogue, with students reflecting on the impact of his actions and sharing what they found most inspiring. This storytelling session allowed them to connect with history in a personal way, sparking their sense of respect for those who fought for India's freedom.

My responsibilities didn’t end with the classes, however, as I was also tasked with coordinating Vanchipattu practice. Vanchipattu, a traditional boat song, is a performance that requires not only synchronized movements but also a deep connection to rhythm and harmony. Organizing this practice session was both challenging and rewarding. My first step was to divide the students into groups, ensuring that each had a mix of voices to create a balanced sound. I demonstrated the beat and rhythm, emphasizing the flow of the song and the unity that should be felt among the group. We practiced maintaining harmony while keeping the energy high, as Vanchipattu songs have a unique vibrancy that reflects the strength and resilience of those who perform them. The students seemed to enjoy the rhythm, and by the end of the practice, we could already sense improvement in their coordination.

Reflecting on the day, I realized how rewarding it was to engage with students across different subjects and activities. From teaching the technicalities of exponents in mathematics to sharing the inspiring tale of Bhagat Singh’s life and guiding students in the art of Vanchipattu, each task required a different approach. It highlighted the importance of versatility in teaching and how fulfilling it can be to connect with students through varied experiences.