• Monika Giri

Today was a special and memorable day as we celebrated “Book-Free Day” at West Point Children Academy. It was an opportunity to step away from traditional lessons and focus on practical, interactive learning.

I wanted to create an activity that would engage the students, build their confidence, and improve their English-speaking skills. After much thought, I came up with an idea I called “Student Interaction.”

The activity was simple yet impactful. Each student was invited to step out of their seat and share something about their day in English. After their presentation, the rest of the class could ask questions or interact with them.

The goal was to encourage both the speaker and the listeners to think critically and communicate effectively.

Today’s “Book-Free Day” turned out to be one of the most productive and rewarding days I’ve had as a teacher. It reinforced my belief that learning isn’t just about textbooks and exams—it’s about helping students discover their potential and grow as individuals.

I also explained that I would be observing their confidence, fluency, and ability to express themselves, but the focus was on growth rather than perfection.

At first, there was hesitation in the room. Many students were shy and seemed unsure about stepping forward. A few avoided eye contact, perhaps hoping they wouldn’t be chosen.

However, once a couple of students volunteered and spoke with enthusiasm, it created a ripple effect. Their courage and confidence inspired others to join in.

As more students came forward, I noticed something remarkable. The initial nervousness began to fade, replaced by excitement and a sense of accomplishment.

The quieter students, who often kept to themselves, started opening up. Their words might not have been perfect, but their effort and determination were evident.

What struck me the most was the transformation I witnessed in the students. With each turn, they became more comfortable standing in front of their peers.

They began expressing themselves with greater clarity and confidence. The interaction between the speaker and the audience also improved, as students started asking thoughtful questions and engaging more actively.

One moment that stood out was when a particularly shy student, who rarely spoke in class, volunteered to participate.

There was a hushed silence as she began speaking, but as she continued, her voice grew steadier, and by the end, she received a round of applause from her classmates. It was a heartwarming moment that reminded me of the power of encouragement and support.

By the end of the day, I felt an immense sense of satisfaction. This activity not only helped the students improve their speaking skills but also brought the class closer together. It taught them to listen, to empathize, and to support one another.

Today’s “Book-Free Day” turned out to be one of the most productive and rewarding days I’ve had as a teacher. It reinforced my belief that learning isn’t just about textbooks and exams—it’s about helping students discover their potential and grow as individuals.

I’m proud of my students for stepping out of their comfort zones and embracing the challenge. It’s days like these that remind me why I love teaching.