Teaching Practice Reflection Week 8 (October 14 – October 18, 2024) Sem 3

 Teaching Practice Reflection Week 8 (October 14 – October 18, 2024)

“Geography is the subject which holds the key to our future.” — Michael Palin

Class: 8th G

Chapter: Reading Maps

Introduction

During Week 8 of my teaching practice at Government Girls Higher Secondary School, Nedumangad, I focused on teaching the chapter Reading Maps to the 8th G class. The objective was to help students develop map-reading skills, understand various types of maps, and interpret geographical features accurately. This week’s lessons encouraged practical learning through hands-on activities and group work.

Classroom Teaching

The following key concepts were covered during the week:

1.Introduction to Maps – I began with a discussion on the significance of maps in everyday life, explaining the different types of maps (physical, political, thematic) and their uses.

2.Map Symbols and Legends – Students learned how to interpret map symbols, legends, and colors used in maps. I provided worksheets for students to practice identifying symbols.

3.Latitude and Longitude – I introduced the concepts of latitude and longitude, explaining their importance in determining the exact location of a place on the Earth’s surface. A globe activity helped visualize these coordinates.

4.Scale and Distance – I explained how to read the scale of a map and calculate distances between two points, followed by practice exercises using rulers and map grids.

5.Direction and Compass Reading – Students were taught the four cardinal directions and how to use a compass for navigation. A classroom activity involving directional clues helped reinforce this concept.

Hands-on activities, group discussions, and visual aids were employed to make the lessons interactive and practical.

Substitution Periods

During substitution periods, I conducted a treasure hunt activity where students used maps and directional clues to locate hidden items. This fun and engaging exercise reinforced their map-reading skills in a creative way.

Additional Responsibilities

1.Mid-Day Meals: I assisted in the distribution of mid-day meals, ensuring the process was efficient and smooth.

2.Class Assignments: I assigned map-reading practice tasks and short reflection essays to help students consolidate their learning.

3.Evening Duties: I managed line duty, ensuring students were safely and orderly dispersed at the end of each day.

Reflections and Observations

Students were highly engaged with the practical nature of this week’s lessons. Many showed noticeable improvement in interpreting map symbols, understanding coordinates, and calculating distances. The interactive classroom activities helped foster collaboration and curiosity, making the topic more relatable and enjoyable.

Summary

Week 8 was a productive and rewarding week, marked by students’ active engagement and improved map-reading skills. By employing hands-on activities and interactive teaching strategies, I was able to foster a deeper understanding of the subject. This week’s experiences further emphasized the importance of experiential learning in Social Science education.