There are 12 Form 4 classes in my school and 4M contains the creme de la creme. These smart kids might be all bright-eyed and bushy-tailed when learning their science subjects, but unfortunately the same eagerness wasn't extended to English and other subjects "lower down the hierarchy". Thus, trying to capture their attention, fuel their imagination and gain their respect was no mean feat.
However, when the students did become engaged in the tasks assigned, MAGIC happened.
One such instance is the Activist assignment I'd written about. Another would be when the students dramatised the short story 'The Fruitcake Special'. The students got into groups of 8, with every one in the group having a role to play.
First, the students adapted the story into a script. Most of the groups modified the story to make it even more funnier. Then, they practised, practised and practised (after school) for 2 weeks or so. Every group was trying to outdo the others and was being very secretive. They would stop rehearsing whenever I passed by Pondok NILAM or elsewhere in the school compound where they held their practice.
Oh, the suspense and anticipation in the build up to Presentation Day!
The day finally arrived and all 5 productions didn't disappoint. The effort that went into the assignment was obvious from the execution of their plays, the costumes they had on and the props that they brought along/made themselves.
The extrovert students were given the platform to shine and I was bowled over by their talents. But it was the quiet, timid students who made me all warm and fuzzy inside. Performing in public must have terrified them and it was evident how nervous they were. But performed they did and it was wonderful to see them emerge from their shells.
I love the diagram below and I hope that all my students will take the message to heart :)
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