Tuesday I ventured into the world of secondary school in Kolkata. I am teaching at the Loreto Day School, which is an all girl's school in the old British section of Kolkata. I don't think I really have much to complain about in terms of class size or resources back home. There are sometimes 40-50 students in a class that contains the basics of chalkboard, desks for about 30 (students pair up) and basic science equipment and samples. As for pacing guides, they have a very strict curriculum (guide) to follow in the upper grade levels. I observed several classes yesterday and presented one or two quick topics in a few. I am working with 6, 7, 8, 9, and 12 grade students in various subjects like Environmental Science, Life Science (biology), and assisting on the national science project endeavor.
In the lower levels up until about 8, the learning is very much centered around inquiry and exploring science through hands-on activities and experiments with explanations and instruction following the activities. Once students reach the upper grades, it becomes very book centered to prepare students to sit for examinations at the end of the 10th and 12th levels. If students do not pass the exams at those levels, they do not move on to the higher levels. I hope that I am able to work with the students in some different ways that will make the book learning more engaging and the students will be able to apply what they are learning from the books. I am also excited about learning from them and the teachers at the school.
It was an interesting first day and I felt like the first day of student teaching or my first classroom. I was introduced in front of the entire student body and gave a quick 1 minute introduction of myself. The students are very curious and I am curious about them as well so we are even. The staff is very welcoming at the school and shared their lunches with me and experiences. Teachers are teachers everywhere, and we have the same issues with education boards, classes, students, and thirst for knowledge. I am looking forward to an intriguing, engaging, and fantastic time here.
In the lower levels up until about 8, the learning is very much centered around inquiry and exploring science through hands-on activities and experiments with explanations and instruction following the activities. Once students reach the upper grades, it becomes very book centered to prepare students to sit for examinations at the end of the 10th and 12th levels. If students do not pass the exams at those levels, they do not move on to the higher levels. I hope that I am able to work with the students in some different ways that will make the book learning more engaging and the students will be able to apply what they are learning from the books. I am also excited about learning from them and the teachers at the school.
It was an interesting first day and I felt like the first day of student teaching or my first classroom. I was introduced in front of the entire student body and gave a quick 1 minute introduction of myself. The students are very curious and I am curious about them as well so we are even. The staff is very welcoming at the school and shared their lunches with me and experiences. Teachers are teachers everywhere, and we have the same issues with education boards, classes, students, and thirst for knowledge. I am looking forward to an intriguing, engaging, and fantastic time here.
I can't wait to hear more.
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