Across the SEA :

I conducted the class according to what I had planned in my lesson plan, but I didn’t fully conform to it.

 

I began the class by greeting everyone as determined by the time. I was still confused until what time "Pagi" and "Siang" were, but I made sure that before I entered the room, I knew what word to use to greet them. I also taught them how to greet each other in Ilokano, my native tongue, as well as in Filipino. Like “Naimbag nga bigat” and “Magandang Umaga” both means Good morning in English translation.

 

After greeting them, I implemented a short game or activity to get them warmed up. I just provided basic questions and activities so that students would not feel driven or afraid to answer in class.

 

I presented my topic after the motivation part. However, in order for them to comprehend the basic concepts first, I defined every single word. I explained the meaning of the words "Present and Past," "Continuous," and "Tense" one by one as a basis of their knowledge, especially since they are not well-versed in the English language, which is my preferred language of teaching because I am an English Major. But, just in case they were really having difficulties understanding me, I was accompanied by my buddies who were translating what I was trying to say in class. I talked in English, and they translated it into Indonesian.

 

I moved on to my main topic upon defining each phrase. I talked carefully and slowly so they could understand. And I simplified each statement because, even if I have interpreters, I want them to understand it from me first. Since the ability to adjust with students is one of the skills of a teacher that should be possessed and developed all the time, because you will meet different versions of students in every classroom where you will teach.

 

After going over one term or bullet, I presented them a structure to use to construct a sentence out of it, as well as examples to help them grasp what I was talking about. I didn't instantly go to the other part of the topic or the next slide of my presentation; instead, I offered the structure first, followed by examples, and then, to see if they learnt anything, I'll ask them to give an example as well, and write it up front. I still guided them even though they were the ones answering in the board, and then I checked the response of the student who stepped into the spotlight by asking the other students if what he/she answered was right.

 

Following the structures and examples, I gave them a psychomotor and cognitive execution related to the topic. I provided the students with instructional materials to better understand the topic but in an enjoyable way.

 

Right after that activity, another activity was undertaken, but this time it was written down. I

assigned them the responsibility of writing 10 sentences about the topic, and after they finished, I offered them a little gesture of appreciation for participating in my class. I gave them oleh-oleh or souvenirs, which consists of chocolates, candies, and keychains from the Philippines.

 

After the discussion and activity implementation, I formally concluded the class and said goodbye to everyone.