A teacher’s life, so they say, is dependent on his lesson plan. As rice is the staple food of every Filipino, the lesson plan is the be-all and end-all of a teacher’s life. Sad to say, the lesson plan is seen as just a requirement in the performance of a teacher’s duty. Although it is being prepared in compliance to the order of higher authorities, the lesson plan remains a force to reckon with the performance of a teacher. But this one-page manifesto is an indicator of a teacher’s passion for teaching. More than being a basic requirement for teaching, the lesson plan must serve its purpose.
As a guideline to better teaching, I have outline here some things which might be useful for the teachers.
First, have a simple objective. Objectives must be set depending on the skill and capacity of the class. To set an objective of improving the mathematical capability of a class cannot be achieved in one lesson. A teacher must be realistic and set an achievable objective for the day. This will lessen the pressure on the pupils and increase their adaptive capability. The regimented life of a teacher will decrease his efficiency but a simple lesson objective will re-invigorate his passion for teaching.
Second, a teacher’s lesson plan must be imaginative. A teacher needs to adopt measures which will trigger the interest of the pupils. Sticking to what the books instruct would create an atmosphere of boredom. Also, be innovative. If an activity or method fails to achieve what is expected, do not attempt to repeat it. A simple way of doing this is by relating the lessons to what interests the pupils most. Always draw a parallelism between the lessons and the interest of the pupils. Through this, pupils will become more active in the class and will take an initiative in sharing what he has in mind. An active class generates more knowledge. Similarly, a knowledgeable class produces better results and achieves the objectives of the lessons.
Thirdly, enjoy what you’re doing. Your imaginative methods of teaching will be naught if you do not find enjoyment in your task. Do not treat teaching as a job. Look at it as avenue of sharing knowledge to other minds. Accept the profession as a passion. If you have passion, you will surely enjoy what you’re doing and will find fulfillment in it.
Teaching is more than the usual lesson plan that we prepare. It is more of accepting our roles in the life of the people entrusted to us. It is more of the willingness to share and being a part of other people’s lives.
By: Randy M. Bongco, Teacher II Orion Elementary School
