By Palesa Ndinisa
A teacher from Ekurhuleni talks about the challenges as well as the joy that comes with teaching in the latter days.
Zanele Mpongose, a 30-year-old teacher who teaches at Ephes Mamkeli Secondary School expresses her love for teaching although it comes with its own difficulties. She demonstrates how exams can be daunting in a student’s life and stretches out advice on how students can overcome these obstacles.
Mpongose teaches English and Life Orientation to grades 9 to 12 students. Although there is overcrowding in classrooms, ill-discipline learners and lack of resources, Mpongose states that teaching is her passion and she makes it a priority to ensure that her students do not only pass but thrive in life. “Teaching has become more advanced compared to 10 years ago. Now, we have social media and it helps. I have WhatsApp groups with my learners and I send past question papers for them to practice. I also send them relatable content from TikTok on topics we discussed during class. I encourage them to do peer teaching, where they sit in groups and teach each other about subjects they do not understand,” uttered Mpongose.
Despite the fact that modern day teaching involves technology, Mpongose believes in some old fashioned methods of study. She emphasises that students need to start studying early and make sure that they understand the syllabus as well as the subject at hand. She states that planning and organising an imperative study schedule is important, using past question papers, making summary notes, studying in groups and taking breaks in between help a lot. Mpongose also encourages students to use resources like YouTube and develop a habit of studying at midnight, when they can have fewer distractions.
“As young teachers, we’ve realised the importance of creating a safe space for our students. We learn about their interests, passions and strengths. We understand that their backgrounds are different and set clear expectations for them. I specifically have one on one interactions with my learners and I celebrate their achievements. Once you love this profession, you become a parent and easily help these children with mental health challenges because you show them love, and that’s all they need,” added Zanele.
