Reflections on Teachers and Teaching

Last January 25 was marked the beginning of the “Know Your School Day” celebration for school year 06-07. The teachers, as well as the UP staff, have been relaxing in the faculty room while some of the selected students who were assigned to handle a particular subject were busy preparing for their classes. Of so many pupils who applied, I was chosen as one.

Two days before it started, January 23, students were asked to sign up an application form and were interviewed by the teacher or personnel of the subject/position they want to apply. Each of the applicants was allowed to handle two subjects. However, for those who applied for non-teaching were only permitted to handle the specific position.

I have also experienced being a teacher. I applied for two subjects, which were Science A, and Science C. Before I finalized the subjects I was about to apply, I really had a hard time deciding whether to make the claim in those subjects or not. But in the end, I still prefer to choose Science. I’m really a Science lover.

At exactly four o’clock in the afternoon, I submitted the application form. I have waited for so long. I was somehow bored because the interview took so long. I was even the second to the last interviewee. I did not regret because after all I was still chosen as the student teacher in both subjects.

The following day, Madame Gallo gave and explained to me the lesson plans she has prepared. When I arrived home, I immediately studied the chapter so that I can really be well prepared for tomorrow’s discussion. I even stayed late up night just to study the lesson and to accomplish my assignments.

Day came, the selected students were already set to teach each subjects. In the afternoon, it was time for me to render my lecture in Sci-C. In fact, we were two. My partner was Windel Binolirao. But I does the most talking because maybe she was shy or does not really wanted to teach because Windel was just forced to apply in this subject. Windel applied only because of peer-pressure. Actually I was the one who compelled her to apply Sci-C.

It was somehow tiring and fun. Tiring and irritating because some of my classmates were busy talking while I’m discussing. Others were listening attentively to my discussion. That’s why I pity them because they were distracted by the chatter of the noisy ones. Fun and enjoyable because I was given the chance to take the place of being a teacher. In fact, I really liked to be a teacher. When I was small, I would often play with my friends and sisters teacher-teacher. I always act as the teacher in front of them. Now going back to the topic, I can say that it was successful and a cool experience in Sci-C.

The next day, it was time to teach Sci-A. My partner was Adelpha Albino. I was not really able to discuss the lessons because Adelpha does most of the talking. I was just like the secretary writing all what she was saying. Anyway, while she was teaching I was also able to catch up and listen to what she was discussing. I was even thankful because I wasn’t able to study the topic since it was too long and I lacked time.

This celebration was like an oral recitation. Through this, I even gained more confidence in facing people. This was a big help in developing my self-esteem. Maybe I’ll still apply for a teacher or an administrator next year.

Another lesson that I have learned is that being a teacher is not that easy. Staying late up night just to prepare lesson plans, making visual aids for students, and so much more were some of a teacher’s work. We did not realize how big is the sacrifice of a teacher just to mold us into responsible and productive citizens of this country. We even complain assignments and projects (just like the blog project). However, the teachers are doing this because it is part of their teaching and they are preparing us to face the true assignments, projects and challenges of life.

I have come to realize all these things because of the celebration. Because I experienced being a little teacher.

My Family

My family is one of the most important gift I ever had in my life. I would never be complete without them because they are my life, my strength, and my breath.

My parents worked hard just to give me a better life. They provided me all that I need and all that I wanted. They taught me to become a better person and also to live by God’s will.

I have five siblings. We are four girls and we only have one brother. We love each other very much even if we have some misunderstandings. I, as the eldest, try to be a good example to my little siblings. Sometimes, if we are free to do anything we play inside our bedroom or talk some of our confidential secrets. I also help them in their lessons and projects if ever they need me.

My family members are:

FELIX MALAZARTE – the head of the family. He is our provider. If I would describe my father, maybe I’ll say he is the serious type. He doesn’t like to talk so much. I can say that before, I am much like my father because I even don’t talk to anybody when I was young. “Papa” as what I often call him does not like to be called daddy because he thinks that it is only for “sosy” people. My father is the one attending my meetings in school. He is very active in terms of leadership. That’s why he is always elected as a PTA officer. I love my father very much.

GRACE MALAZARTE – the light of our home. I call her “mama” because she also does not like to be called mommy. She is our guide and our protector. If I’m sad she also feels the way what I feel. My mother fights for us as long as she knows that we are in the right track. She is the one who taught me to be religious and God-fearing. I learned from her how to be independent and reliable. My mother is always behind me wherever I am and whatever I do.

KIM PATRICIA MALAZARTE – she is the second among the children. This girl is somehow quiet and funny. Kim is a good dancer. She is also very thrifty in terms of money. Aside from that, she is good in math that’s why she wants to be an architect someday. She draws beautiful scenes and clothes too! We enjoy each other’s company.

THERESE ANDRIA MALAZARTE – the third among the five children. Andria is a grade-two student from USJR. If Kim likes dancing, well for her singing is much valuable. We motivate her to join singing contests. If she lose, we inspire her more not to give up because the right time has not come. I admire Andria because she has more friends than I do. She is so intelligent and has very good leadership. Even if I’m older than her, I look at her as my inspiration.

GABRIEL LEMUEL MALAZARTE – the only worm among the roses. My brother, Gabriel, is not with us. He is with my grandparents right now because he was so close to their hearts. Gabriel is studying in a Chinese school in Manila. My uncle is the one paying for his tuition fee. We felt sad and lonely because he would call us and cry looking for us. He is also very bright because actually Gabriel is the topnotch in their school. Aside from that, he got good looks. He is sometimes mischievous and naughty. I hope we can get to see each other again and forget the years where we miss each others hugs and kisses.

MA. ALYSSA LEXI MALAZARTE – the youngest in the family. She is now two years old turning three this coming April 20. Alyssa is my father’s pet. Everything she wanted was given to her. That is why she is becoming a spoiled brat. But anyway, she makes us happy and smile even in times of troubles. I can say that she has a good memory. Alyssa can operate the DVD player all by herself. She has even memorized some songs that are popular at this time. Like Andria, she loves singing. We love her very much.

Now you know some characteristics of my family. Always remember that you must treasure your family because they are always there right by your side willing to help and ready to face the challenges of life. BLOOD IS THICKER THAN WATER.