First day of proper lesson started off quite well although I didn't have much time to have proper lesson with them. Even collecting a form from them can take ages. Time management is something I would have to learn apart from classroom management because this class needs constant reminder about things like not to shout out the answer, not to laugh at classmates, etc.
A matter of habit I guess and I would have to instil this in them. Just worried that alot of time gets wasted each time I have to stop what I was saying or doing just to remind them to raise their hands. The command of English of many of them isn't good so they may have difficulty even understanding Math. It's unfortunate that many of these pupils are those who come from Chinese- speaking backgrounds. Unlike teenagers who may speak to friends in English in school, kids tend to speak to friends in the language they speak at home too. Which is why improving their manner of speaking can be an uphill task. In addition, they are in school for only a few hours each day. Teachers have to multi-task well I guess.
I remember a colleague telling me she used to be a perfectionist. It's unrealistic to be a perfectionist in this line because many a times, things do not go according to plan since a child's behaviour can be erratic, and in this case, there are 30-40 pupils per class! She learnt to let go and stop being so harsh on herself because not being a perfectionist doesn't mean one produces sloppy work. One just got to try to do things right the 1st time round and then move on.
I used to think that being a form teacher simply means taking attendance everyday and settling the report books matter twice a year. It's a great misconception "-_-. There are really many many things to see to especially when parents write letters or notes to you about their child and you have to attend to them case by case. On top of lesson plans for all subjects and making sure the lessons flow, plus making sure you complete what you are supposed to do with the children within stipulated time, i.e. in time for exams. Oh ya, and maintaining discipline at all times.. kids coming to you one by one in class such that you can never go on with something you've planned. Duties around the school before school starts and during recess... the list goes on.
That's the reality and the above are only a fraction of the responsibilities. Coordination and timing are really important.
Whew...
Each day I feel relieved that things go well or at least there's improvement.
However when little children greet you both inside and outside school, there's a feeling of happiness. They are forgiving little creatures. Not that you've done anything that drastic against them haha.. But what I mean is even after you've scolded them, they tend to forget it later on. They don't bear grudges though I've heard that girls (esp. those in girls' schools) tend to be more petty and bear grudges. The nature of girls I supposed. Not that they are that evil hahaha.
Met little Hazel at Westmall on Sat. She waved and smiled. And I actually saw her this morning again (not inside the school mind you...). Don't know why I keep bumping into her. She's like all over the place hahaha. But she's a pleasure to teach because she's so polite and cute and listens to instructions. Smart too! :D Oh she's the one who drew me a picture. One of the mature ones in class. Next time I might upload the drawing.
TV time!Labels: Work
Serendipity believed today at 8:30 PM
