Pearls, Petals, and Lessons – The First Week of Teaching Practice

Weekly Reflection 
Week 1 (05 November – 07 November 2025)

The fourth-semester teaching practice is an essential part of the B.Ed. programme, aimed at providing student-teachers with real classroom experience and helping them refine their pedagogical and professional skills. It offers a platform to apply theoretical knowledge in practical situations, fostering confidence and competence in teaching.

           Our 30-day teaching practice began at Government High School, Thalachira, under the mentorship of Smitha Teacher. My peer group members were Keerthy Molly Jacob (Mathematics) and David C. Alex (Natural Science). Returning to the same school from our third-semester practice made the environment familiar and comforting, enabling us to begin this new phase with enthusiasm and readiness.

This time, the room we used previously has now been converted into a library (ഗ്രന്ഥപുര). The teachers kindly allowed us to sit and work there, which made it a peaceful and resourceful space for our preparations.

Day 1 (05/11/2025 – Wednesday)

Today marked the first day of our 30-day teaching practice. We reached the school at 9:15 a.m. and met the Headmaster to submit our attendance register. Our mentor, Smitha Teacher, warmly welcomed us and offered her valuable guidance for the new phase.

I was assigned to handle Classes 9B (English Medium) and 8A (Malayalam Medium). As per the timetable, I had a class in 8A today. The students were excited to see me again after the previous phase of practice. The lesson proceeded well, and the students participated actively in the learning activities. Attendance was slightly lower as some students were busy preparing for the Sub-District Kalolsavam.

We also took part in the midday meal serving and dispersal duties. Overall, it was a pleasant and encouraging start to our teaching practice.

Day 2 (06/11/2025 – Thursday)

I reached the school at 9:15 a.m. Today was a regular working day at Government High School, Thalachira. Since I had no classes as per the timetable, I spent the day preparing lesson plans and teaching aids for upcoming sessions.A heartwarming moment brightened my day when Thanusree, one of my students, surprised me with a handmade gift — a beautiful set of chain, earrings, and ring crafted with pearls. It was a touching gesture that made me feel deeply appreciated and connected to my students.

“Tiny pearls, big emotions — a student’s love captured in a beautiful gesture.”

I also assisted with the midday meal serving and dispersal duties along with my peers. Overall, it was a calm yet memorable day filled with affection and gratitude that strengthened my bond with the students.

Day 3 (07/11/2025 – Friday)

 Being Friday, the first period began at 9:30 a.m. As per the timetable, I had consecutive classes in 9B (English Medium) and 8A (Malayalam Medium) during the first and second periods.The first class in 9B was particularly special — the students surprised me by giving me a flower, expressing how much they had missed me over the past few days. Their affection and warmth truly touched my heart. I conducted the lessons effectively, following my lesson plans, and the students participated enthusiastically in all activities.After the classes, I assisted with the midday meal serving and dispersal duty. It was a busy yet fulfilling day, one that reminded me how rewarding the teacher–student relationship can be.

The first week of teaching practice was a warm and motivating start that strengthened my confidence as a teacher. The students’ affection and active participation made each day meaningful and reinforced my passion for teaching.