Weekly journals

 

FIRST WEEK REFLECTION

This week marked the beginning of a new semester at San Bonifacio School, and the air in the 10th grade English classroom was filled with a mix of excitement and anticipation. Observing the students as they reacquainted with each other after the break, I was impressed by their mutual respect and the inclusive atmosphere they cultivated. A particular moment that stood out was during our ice-breaker activity, where each student shared a personal achievement. The support and genuine interest from the class were palpable, setting a collaborative tone for the year. Additionally, I noticed a few students taking on natural leadership roles, facilitating discussions and encouraging quieter classmates to voice their thoughts, which significantly enhanced the group dynamics.

SECOND WEEK REFLECTION

The second week delved deeper into developing critical thinking and feedback skills. Our main activity involved peer reviews of written essays. Students demonstrated a high level of engagement and responsibility as they navigated this task. Their feedback was not only constructive but also delivered with empathy, showing a keen understanding of how to communicate effectively and supportively in English. I was particularly moved by how they balanced praise with critique, ensuring that each comment was framed to encourage improvement rather than discourage. This exercise has also helped them to refine their analytical skills and deepen their understanding of the English language, as they had to articulate their thoughts clearly and precisely.

THIRD WEEK REFLECTION

This week’s focus was on enhancing oral skills through various speaking exercises designed to improve pronunciation, fluency, and confidence. The enthusiasm in the classroom was infectious, with students eagerly participating in pronunciation drills and impromptu speeches. Their commitment to helping each other was evident, as they gently corrected each other’s mistakes, often using humor to lighten the atmosphere. This supportive environment not only helped the less confident speakers to try without fear of embarrassment but also fostered a sense of community. It was also interesting to observe how students used their body language to communicate more effectively, an essential aspect of mastering a language.

FOURTH WEEK REFLECTION

In our fourth week, we explored creative writing, focusing on developing short stories that integrated various elements we had discussed earlier in the semester. The students’ imagination and creativity were truly showcased as they crafted stories that ranged from adventurous to introspective. During our class sharing session, each student presented their story, paying close attention to narrative structure and descriptive language. The feedback from their peers was insightful, focusing on areas of strength and opportunities for enhancement. This activity not only bolstered their English skills but also encouraged them to appreciate different perspectives and cultures, reflecting the global nature of the English language and its capacity to bridge diverse experiences.

FIFTH WEEK REFLECTION

In the fifth week, we focused on integrating technology into our learning process. Students were introduced to various educational apps and online resources to enhance their English skills. They were particularly engaged with interactive grammar and vocabulary games. This approach not only made learning more enjoyable but also allowed students to practice at their own pace. I observed a noticeable improvement in their engagement and enthusiasm towards learning, as they eagerly participated in the activities and shared their progress with their peers.

SIXTH WEEK REFLECTION

During the sixth week, we emphasized listening skills. We used audio recordings and podcasts to expose students to different English accents and dialects. This exercise helped them to develop better listening comprehension and to understand the nuances of spoken English. The students were particularly interested in a podcast series about global cultures, which sparked lively discussions and enhanced their cultural awareness. This activity also encouraged them to practice active listening, a crucial skill for language learning.

SEVENTH WEEK REFLECTION

The seventh week was dedicated to collaborative projects. Students worked in groups to create presentations on various topics of interest. This exercise fostered teamwork and helped them to develop their research and presentation skills. The collaborative nature of the project allowed students to learn from each other and to practice their English in a supportive environment. The presentations were impressive, and it was clear that the students had put a lot of effort into their work. This week highlighted the importance of collaboration and peer learning in language acquisition.

EIGHTH WEEK REFLECTION

In the eighth week, we explored literature. Students were introduced to classic and contemporary English literature, and they were tasked with reading and analyzing short stories. This activity not only improved their reading comprehension but also exposed them to different writing styles and literary techniques. The students enjoyed discussing the themes and characters of the stories, and their analyses were insightful and thought-provoking. This week reinforced the importance of literature in language learning, as it provides a rich context for language use and cultural understanding.

NINTH WEEK REFLECTION

The ninth week focused on enhancing writing skills. Students were tasked with writing essays on various topics, which allowed them to practice organizing their thoughts and articulating their ideas clearly. We also held peer review sessions where students provided constructive feedback on each other's work. This process helped them to develop their writing skills and to understand the importance of clarity and coherence in written communication. I was impressed by the progress they made, and it was clear that they were becoming more confident and competent writers.

TENTH WEEK REFLECTION

During the tenth week, we delved into the world of debates. Students were divided into teams and assigned different sides of various topics. This exercise helped them to develop their argumentative skills and to practice articulating their opinions in English. The debates were lively and engaging, and it was evident that the students had done thorough research and preparation. This activity not only improved their speaking skills but also encouraged critical thinking and the ability to consider different perspectives.

ELEVENTH WEEK REFLECTION

The eleventh week was particularly special as I had the opportunity to be the pronouncer for the school's annual spelling bee. The event was a highlight of the semester, with students showcasing their impressive spelling abilities. The preparation for the spelling bee involved intensive practice sessions, where students worked diligently to master the spelling of a wide range of words. On the day of the event, the excitement was palpable, and the students' performances were outstanding. This experience was rewarding for both the students and myself, as it highlighted their dedication and hard work.

TWELFTH WEEK REFLECTION

In the final week of the semester, we focused on reflection and review. Students were encouraged to reflect on their progress and to identify areas for further improvement. We held individual conferences where each student discussed their achievements and set goals for the future. This week also involved reviewing the material covered throughout the period, ensuring that students had a solid understanding of the key concepts. The sense of accomplishment and pride was evident as students shared their reflections and celebrated their progress. This final week reinforced the importance of continuous learning and self-assessment in language acquisition.