One day, I was watching Mrs Oni, one of the Primary Six teachers to whom I was sent to assist, explain Mathematics to the pupils. It surprised me the way she approached the problems, making even the most difficult ones easy to understand and solve on their own.
As I watched her continue to do what she knows how to do best, especially by relating to relatable examples they are familiar with, one thought kept running through my mind: I need to learn this skill and become like her.
One thing I love about this school is that they are already helping these pupils to solve Mathematics concepts that are usually taught in Junior Secondary School. They are laying a strong foundation early, and it made me wonder how I, too, could become someone who explains Mathematics with such clarity.
Mathematics was a subject I hated when I was in school. It wasn’t until I got to the university that I began to develop an interest in it, and that was simply because one lecturer explained it in a way that made it easy for me to understand. I never knew the subject could be interesting if only I had opened my mind to it during my Secondary School days.
Right now, it is a skill I am willing to learn because I really need it. First, understanding Mathematics and being able to teach it is a huge advantage because many parents are looking for someone who can help their children improve in the subject.
I remember listening to Mrs Oni one day as she advised and encouraged me to learn Mathematics. She told me it would give me more opportunities to earn extra income by taking lessons for pupils whose parents want them to become better at the subject. She also shared how the extra income she earns from teaching Mathematics has been helping her a lot.
Trust me, a teacher who has the skill to explain Mathematics well will enjoy many opportunities. Apart from their regular work, the extra income from private lessons is an added advantage. More importantly, teaching Mathematics well can make a lasting impact on pupils because of the demands of our education system today.
To gain admission into most colleges or universities, students must pass both Mathematics and English. For instance, there is a popular Secondary School many of our pupils hope to attend. If a pupil passes English but fails Mathematics in the entrance examination, they have to buy another form and try again the next time.
At the moment, this is a skill I am determined to learn, and I know it will help me greatly. Teaching Mathematics is a valuable skill anywhere, especially in the school where I work. Teachers are earning good money simply by taking extra lessons for pupils, and this is an opportunity I do not want to miss.
Beyond the extra income I would be getting, I have also come to understand how important it is for me to know and understand Mathematics as a skill so I can teach my pupils well.
I am already learning and becoming more involved in it. I believe having this skill will make me more effective and create an impactful impression in the lives of those I teach, both in school and during extra lessons outside the classroom and this will leave a lasting impact on them.
I just participated in the contest by the India United Community. If you are interested, kindly check the main post for information.
