WEEK 9: Surprises and Smiles

DAY 41

25 September 2023

Finally, Monday has arrived. I've been looking forward to it with a mix of trepidation and enthusiasm. Today marks my first observation with Ms. Li, my school mentor. I have to admit that I was somewhat nervous as I entered the classroom. However, as the day went on, I realized that the experience had more potential than I had first realized.

The class today focused on improving reading skills, and the subject amazing trip to Morocco. My personal connection to the subject matter made the session interesting and enjoyable. My nervousness subsided as the pupils seemed enthralled with the stories I told.

The comments from Ms. Li was a goldmine of knowledge. She was loving and motherly, and she gave me helpful criticism to help me get better. She had a firm teaching style, yet I could still feel that she genuinely wanted to help and mentor me as I developed as a teacher. Her background as a teacher was evident when she gave me insightful notes and knowledge that I had never even come across before.

Now that I've completed my first observation, I feel determined and accomplished. Even though I still have two observations left, the thought no longer scares me. This journey promises growth, learning, and exciting opportunities under Ms. Li's supervision and assistance. I'm excited for the upcoming difficulties and benefits.

p/s: no picture for today as I've been so busy and nervous haha!

DAY 42

26 September 2023

On September 26, it was my turn to guide my Form 3 students, and our focus for the day was writing, specifically the art of crafting an informal email. I took the opportunity to introduce them to a set of useful expressions and idioms to enhance their writing skills. It was an engaging session, especially as I saw their faces light up with newfound knowledge.

After school, my usual routine of training my choral speaking team and the school band continued. However, this day took a surprising turn when Cg. Nordin approached me. To my shock and bewilderment, he asked me to sing with the band during an upcoming ceremony. I couldn't help but wonder if Cg Danish had something to do with this unexpected invitation, perhaps mentioning my singing abilities.

With a mixture of excitement and uncertainty, I found myself in uncharted territory. I'm now grappling with the challenge of preparing for a musical performance. It's a reminder that life as a teacher can be filled with both planned lessons and unforeseen surprises. As I navigate this new twist, I'll do my best to rise to the occasion and create a memorable experience. Wish me luck! 😄

DAY 43

27 September 2023

Continuing from yesterday's lessons, today brought an opportunity for my students to put their newfound knowledge into practice. For my Form 3 students, the task was to compose real emails, a test of their grasp on the email-writing skills we've been working on. Meanwhile, my Form 4 students delved into a related topic, focusing on how to give directions within an email.

As the school day concluded, my role shifted to band practice. There, I received a surprise that left me in a state of mild shock. I discovered the song I'd be singing, and it was a genre completely outside my comfort zone. This unexpected twist raised questions and concerns about whether I could rise to the challenge so wish me luck!

DAY 44

28 September 2023

As Day 44 of my practicum journey unfolds, the familiar rhythm of daily life as a teacher continues. While the routine may seem repetitive, it's in these daily actions that we find consistency and stability. Each day brings opportunities for growth, both for ourselves and our students. In the routine, we discover the subtle nuances that make each day unique, and it's in this journey that we truly become educators. Here's to embracing the everyday and finding joy in the routine!

DAY 45

29 September 2023

Today marks a special occasion as we gather to celebrate Maulidur Rasul, a day of significance and reflection. The festivities took place at Laman Bestari, and to our delight, we were treated to delicious free food. The flavours added an extra layer of joy to the day's festivities, making it all the more memorable.

In preparation for the upcoming performance next week, I took the initiative to seek permission from the GPK (Assistant Principal) to conduct an extra practice session during school hours. Thankfully, the request was approved, giving us valuable extra time for our preparations. The additional practice extended until 12.30 pm, allowing us to refine our performance and make the most of the practice time.

SWOT Analysis of the Week

Strengths: 1. Extra Practice: Permission for an additional practice session during school hours provided valuable preparation time for an upcoming performance.

Weaknesses: 1. Repetitive Routine: The week's routine may have felt repetitive, potentially leading to complacency. 2. Outside Comfort Zone: A musical challenge required stepping out of one's comfort zone, posing potential challenges.

Opportunities: 1. Learning Moments: Routine tasks offer opportunities for subtle growth and personal development. 2. Cultural Enrichment: Cultural celebrations like Maulidur Rasul can promote cultural enrichment and understanding.

Threats: 1. Complacency: Repeated routines may lead to complacency among students and teachers. 2. Performance Pressure: The musical challenge outside one's comfort zone may create undue pressure and anxiety.