Literary Swirl

A cognitive map is a mental representation or visual diagram of information, concepts, or relationships. It helps individuals organize and process their understanding of a particular subject by mapping out the relationships and connections between ideas. In educational settings, it is used as a tool to assist students in visually organizing knowledge, which can aid in learning, recalling, and applying information. As part of the B.Ed. curriculum, I prepared a cognitive map after selecting two units each from the Plus One and Plus Two English textbooks. I chose the unit "Harmony of Life" from the Plus One textbook. This unit focuses on the holistic concept of wellness, featuring a short story, a poem, and an essay. Anton Chekhov's Gooseberries explores the pursuit of one’s dreams, while William Wordsworth's poem To Sleep highlights the importance of rest for well-being. Max Beerbohm's essay Going Out for a Walk questions the idea that walking is always a productive...

 During my second phase of teaching practice, I undertook an innovative approach based on the chapter "The School for Sympathy." I presented the character sketch of Miss Beam, a key character in the story, through a method called "bubble instruction." This method involved illustrating Miss Beam’s qualities and traits in a creative, visual manner by placing key aspects of her personality inside bubbles. Each bubble highlighted a different characteristic, such as her kindness, sympathy, understanding and her unique approach to fostering empathy in her students. This approach not only engaged students but also helped them better understand and connect with the character in a more interactive and memorable way.

As part of the B.Ed. curriculum, I prepared a digital text on English for 8th class on the theme of "Friendship and Love." The unit includes four chapters: "To Me, Fair Friend, You Never Can Be Old," A Time to Walk, The Gift of the Magi, and The Devoted Friend. Each chapter explores different aspects of friendship and love, highlighting the deep emotional bonds, sacrifices, and the timeless nature of true friendship and also true love. This unit aims to offer students a comprehensive understanding of friendship and importance of love its significance, and the value it holds in human relationships.  https://online.fliphtml5.com/ltvco/zepj/  

 The Christmas celebration was joyfully conducted by our juniors, creating a festive atmosphere that filled the air with excitement. The event began with a formal addressing session, where warm wishes were extended to everyone present. The celebration was marked by the much-awaited cake-cutting ceremony, which was led by the Principal and the teachers. This symbolic gesture brought everyone together, sharing in the festive spirit of the season. The event was further elevated by various programs conducted by our dear friends. These performances included dances, songs, and skits that added fun and creativity to the celebration. Each act showcased the talent and enthusiasm of our peers, making the event even more memorable. The entire celebration was a beautiful reflection of joy, unity, and the festive spirit, leaving everyone with wonderful memories and a sense of togetherness.

Our journey to Parambikulam began on December 1st, marking the start of an unforgettable nature camp. The trip was designed to provide an escape from daily life and immerse us in nature's tranquility. Guided by our principal, Dr Usha Susan Varghese, and Dr. Reshmi Ma'am, we embarked on a journey filled with adventure, learning, and cultural exchange. From trekking and wildlife safaris to interacting with local tribal communities, each experience deepened our connection with nature and instilled a sense of responsibility to preserve it. The camp's impact was transformative, leaving us with cherished memories and a renewed sense of inspiration. The valedictory function on the final day highlighted the significance of linking education with nature. Keynote speaker Mini Venugopal emphasized the importance of fostering a deeper connection with nature in educational practices. As we concluded the camp, we felt a sense of fulfillment and gratitude, knowing that the experience woul...