Words are a means for imparting knowledge and to do so, they require
proper handling. Using words that do not convey anything or adjectives
meant purely for embellishment should be avoided as they serve no
purpose. The teacher’s job is not to impress the student with an
extensive vocabulary, but to handle language so that ideas are
communicated properly and honestly. Therefore, choosing simple,
familiar words to communicate the subject matter is important.
Voice
modulation is another important factor in communication. It is
necessary to avoid a monotone since it diminishes the students’
attention. Neither raising one’s voice nor mumbling one’s
words helps in teaching. The teacher must discover a balanced, natural
tone.
Children read
body language well. Gestures and other physical expressions enliven and
accent the subject matter as well as command the attention of the
listeners. A relaxed storyteller, familiar with his or her subject
matter, naturally adds movement and grace to the storytelling. The
teacher’s discovery of freedom in self-expression holds the
students’ interest and attention.
An effective
teacher is one who unfolds the topics. Topics cannot just be handed
over. Unfolding a topic means guiding a student’s thinking
process, crossing the hurdles in understanding together, and going over
the material until the student understands what the teacher
understands.
