Artefact 1: Certificate from Teacher Training Course
Receiving my diploma in English Language and Literature from the Open University of Sri Lanka marks a significant milestone in my journey as a teacher. This qualification not only symbolizes my formal entry into the field of education but also represents the culmination of years of academic dedication and a passion for the English language. It was during this program that I gained a deeper appreciation for the nuances of language, literature, and the art of communication, which have since shaped my teaching philosophy and approach.
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The program offered me a broad spectrum of knowledge, from linguistic theories to literary analysis, and provided me with a solid foundation to teach English effectively. One of the most transformative aspects of the course was its emphasis on critical thinking and the power of interpretation. For instance, studying diverse literary texts taught me to understand and appreciate different cultural and historical contexts, an insight I now integrate into my lessons to foster a more inclusive and global perspective among my students.
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Moreover, the diploma's flexible structure, as part of the Open University's distance learning model, was a lesson in discipline and self-motivation. Balancing my studies with personal commitments taught me the importance of time management, perseverance, and adaptability—skills I pass on to my students by encouraging them to approach challenges with a proactive mindset.
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A particularly memorable moment during this program was a project that required analyzing contemporary Sri Lankan literature in English. It helped me connect with my roots and inspired me to explore how language can bridge cultures. This experience has profoundly influenced how I encourage students to find personal connections to their learning materials, making lessons more relatable and impactful.
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This diploma has also been a catalyst for lifelong learning. The knowledge and skills I gained have continually evolved through my teaching experiences, professional development opportunities, and interactions with students. It serves as a reminder of the transformative power of education and the responsibility I hold as a teacher to inspire and guide others.
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Ultimately, this artefact is not just a testament to my academic achievements but also a symbol of my commitment to growth and excellence in education. It reminds me of my roots as a learner and motivates me to foster the same curiosity and passion in my students.
Artefact 2: Reflection on "Be Verbs" Activity with Key Foundation Level Students
One of the most memorable and impactful activities I conducted was with my Key Foundation level students to practice "be" verbs. This activity involved a fun guessing game where each student had a character pasted on their back and had to figure out their identity by asking questions of their partner. The photographs from this session capture the energy and excitement of the classroom and serve as a reminder of the value of interactive learning.
The goal of this activity was to reinforce the use of "be" verbs while building students' speaking confidence. Students asked questions like, “Am I a cartoon character?” or “Am I a famous person?” This enabled them to practice sentence structures in an engaging, communicative context. The simplicity of the activity ensured that students at varying levels of proficiency could participate actively and learn from one another.
This activity’s success lay in its ability to turn a grammatical concept into a fun and memorable experience. The element of mystery encouraged even the quieter students to interact and think critically. I remember one particularly shy student beaming with pride after successfully guessing their character—it was a moment of personal triumph that exemplified the impact of well-structured, interactive activities.
In addition to language skills, the activity fostered essential soft skills like collaboration, critical thinking, and active listening. Students had to listen carefully to their partner’s clues, think logically, and formulate appropriate follow-up questions. The game also encouraged teamwork, as students often cheered each other on or helped clarify their peers’ questions.
Reflecting on this experience, I am reminded of the importance of creating a classroom environment where learning is both engaging and meaningful. Activities like this demonstrate how language practice can go beyond textbooks to become a dynamic and enjoyable process. They also reinforce my belief that a student-centred approach is key to effective teaching.
The photograph from this activity is not just a record of a lesson; it’s a snapshot of a teaching philosophy that prioritizes creativity, interaction, and joy in learning. It motivates me to keep designing lessons that empower students to learn through play and collaboration, making language learning a truly enriching experience.
Artefact 3: Reflection on a Student’s Card: "You Are the Best Teacher Ever"
Among the many meaningful moments in my teaching journey, receiving a card from a student with the words "You are the best teacher ever" holds a special place in my heart. This simple yet heartfelt gesture captures the essence of why I chose to become a teacher: to make a positive difference in my students' lives. The photograph of this card reminds me of the profound impact teachers can have, not only as educators but also as mentors and role models.
This card was given to me during a particularly challenging phase of my teaching career, when I was striving to ensure that every student felt valued and supported. The fact that this student took the time to express their appreciation in such a personal way reassured me that my efforts were making a difference. It was a touching reminder that teaching is not just about imparting knowledge but about building relationships and fostering a supportive environment.
Reflecting on the significance of this artefact, I am reminded of the importance of creating a classroom atmosphere where students feel heard, understood, and encouraged. This card serves as evidence of the connection I strive to build with each of my students. Whether it’s through listening to their challenges, celebrating their successes, or simply being present for them, I aim to create a safe space where every learner feels empowered to grow.
What makes this card even more special is that it reflects the mutual respect and trust between teacher and student. It inspires me to continue prioritizing empathy and kindness in my teaching practice, knowing that these qualities can leave a lasting impression on young minds.
Ultimately, this artefact is more than a token of appreciation; it symbolizes the heart of my teaching identity. It reminds me of the value of patience, encouragement, and genuine care in shaping students’ lives. Whenever I look at this card, I feel a renewed sense of purpose and motivation to uphold the values that make teaching such a rewarding profession.
