MAVEL Edtect Consult

Another Year of Capacity Building

TEACHING TO IMPACT

‎It was a truly unique evening on the 2nd of July, 2025, as the SS 2 students of Literature had an Evening of Literature Practical tagged *"Tale by Moonlight" 🌙.*
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‎This unique learning platform was dedicated to reenacting our Africanness, where tales, songs, dances, and drama played a crucial role in showcasing Oral Literature. The students were also made to understand the evolving nature of Oral Literature into Written Literature. This transition in literature emphasises the importance of preserving stories for future generations while allowing them to transcend geographical boundaries.
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‎During the event, the students took turns narrating various literary texts they had studied throughout the academic session. While recounting these stories, they highlighted the lessons learned from each character. This experience helped them realise that literature extends beyond mere text; it serves as a transformative subject, empowering them to be agents of social change. *With this, they really understand why literature is said to be a mirror of society.*

*Teaching Special Needs Students: An Insight from "Every Child is Special".*
By William, Peace

As educators, we hold the responsibility of shaping the future of every child in our classrooms. Unfortunately, in many schools, children with special needs are often misunderstood, labelled as "lazy," or dismissed as incapable. The movie *Every Child is Special* (also known as *Taare Zameen Par*) serves as a powerful reminder that every student has potential, and we must nurture it.

*Understanding the Movie’s Message*
*Every Child is Special* tells the story of Ishaan Awasthi, an eight-year-old boy who struggles in school due to dyslexia. His teachers and parents misunderstand his challenges, viewing him as careless and disobedient. However, when a compassionate art teacher, Ram Shankar Nikumbh, recognizes Ishaan’s struggles and adapts his teaching methods to suit Ishaan’s learning style, the boy flourishes.

This film highlights a critical issue in education: the need for teachers to identify and support children with learning differences rather than punish them for struggling.

*Key Lessons for Educators on Teaching Special Needs Students*

1. *Recognize That Every Child Learns Differently*
Not all students grasp concepts at the same pace. Some may have learning disabilities like dyslexia, ADHD, or autism. Instead of labelling them as "slow" or "difficult," we must recognize their unique abilities and find ways to support them.

✅ *Actionable Tip:* Observe students and identify signs of learning difficulties. Consult with specialists or school counsellors when needed.

2. *Create a Supportive and Inclusive Classroom*
Ishaan’s transformation occurred because he felt safe and understood. Special needs students thrive in an inclusive environment where they are not ridiculed but encouraged.

✅ *Actionable Tip:* Foster a classroom culture of patience, encouragement, and acceptance. Teach other students to be supportive of their peers with special needs.

3. *Adapt Teaching Methods to Suit Individual Needs*
In the movie, the teacher used visual learning, hands-on activities, and creative approaches to help Ishaan better understand concepts. A one-size-fits-all teaching method does not work for all students.

✅ *Actionable Tip:* Use multi-sensory teaching strategies—combine visuals, storytelling, hands-on activities, and technology to cater to different learning styles.

4. *Boost Self-Esteem and Confidence*
Before receiving support, Ishaan felt like a failure, which lowered his self-esteem. When he was encouraged and given the right support, his confidence grew, and his abilities flourished.

✅ *Actionable Tip:* Celebrate small victories and acknowledge students’ efforts, not just their results. Encourage and highlight their strengths, whether in art, music, or other areas.

5. *Partner with Parents to Support the Child’s Growth*
Many parents, like Ishaan’s, may not fully understand their child’s struggles. It is the educator’s role to educate parents, offer guidance, and work together to support the child.

✅ *Actionable Tip:* Hold regular meetings with parents, provide resources, and suggest ways they can assist their child at home.

*Final Thoughts*
The message of *Every Child is Special* is clear: Every child has potential, and every child deserves a chance. As educators, we should not judge students solely by their grades or behaviour. Instead, let’s strive to understand, support, and nurture every learner, ensuring that no child is left behind.

Don't forget, every child is special!