Conversation with Mr. Shafi Ahmed, a Maths Teacher at Sri Venkateshwar International School: “My greatest achievement is my students scoring high grades”

Conversation with Mr. Shafi Ahmed conducted by Keerti Sheoran, a class 10 student of Sri Venkateshwar International School, and Emerging Leader at NoticeBard.

What inspired you to become a maths teacher, and how would you describe your teaching philosophy?

The inspiration behind my decision to become a maths teacher stems from a genuine love for teaching and a desire to share knowledge, particularly with children. I find joy and fulfilment in imparting understanding and skills to young minds, and I believe that education is a powerful tool for shaping the future.

My teaching philosophy revolves around creating a positive and engaging learning environment. I aim to make maths not only accessible but also enjoyable for my students. I believe that fostering a love for the subject involves not just teaching formulas and concepts but also showing the real-world applications and relevance of mathematics.

In the classroom, I prioritise creating a supportive atmosphere where students feel encouraged to ask questions, explore ideas, and express their thoughts. I recognize that each student has a unique learning style and pace, and I strive to tailor my teaching methods to cater to diverse needs.

Moreover, I believe in the importance of making connections between mathematical concepts and everyday experiences. This approach helps students see the practicality of what they’re learning and fosters a deeper understanding of the subject.

I also emphasise the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Mathematics is not just about memorising formulas but about cultivating the ability to analyse, reason, and solve real-world problems. My goal is to empower my students with the skills they need to approach challenges with confidence and resilience.

Overall, my passion for teaching, coupled with a commitment to creating a positive and inclusive learning environment, forms the foundation of my teaching philosophy. I strive to instill not only mathematical knowledge but also a lifelong love for learning in every student I have the privilege to teach.

Can you share a specific instance where you turned a challenging concept into an engaging and understandable lesson for your students?

One specific instance where I turned a challenging concept into an engaging and understandable lesson for my students involved the use of word problems. Recognizing that some students found certain mathematical concepts challenging, I devised a strategy to make these concepts more relatable and applicable to their daily lives.

I designed a series of word problems that incorporated practical problems or real-life incidents. These problems were crafted to align with the challenging concept, providing a context that students could easily connect with. By grounding the abstract mathematical concept in familiar, day-to-day scenarios, I aimed to bridge the gap between theory and practical understanding.

During the lesson, I presented these word problems to the students, encouraging them to think critically and apply the concept in solving the given scenarios. The problems were carefully constructed to highlight the relevance of the mathematical concept in solving real-world issues.

Through this approach, I witnessed a significant improvement in the students’ engagement and comprehension. The practical context not only captured their interest but also facilitated a deeper understanding of the challenging concept. Students were able to visualise how the mathematical principles could be utilised to solve problems they might encounter in their lives.

This instance reinforced the importance of connecting abstract concepts with real-world applications to enhance student learning. It also underscored the idea that making learning relatable and engaging can transform challenging subjects into accessible and meaningful lessons for students.

What advice would you give to students who may find maths challenging or intimidating?

For students who find maths challenging or intimidating, my advice would be to start with easy questions and concepts initially and gradually increase the level of difficulty. Breaking down the subject into manageable steps can help build confidence and prevent feelings of overwhelm.

Begin by tackling straightforward problems that align with the fundamental concepts. This allows for a solid foundation and a sense of accomplishment. As students become more comfortable with the basics, they can then progress to more complex problems and advanced concepts.

Consistent practice is key. Math is a skill that improves with repetition and application. Regularly working through problems, practising different types of questions, and reviewing concepts will contribute to a deeper understanding of the subject. Consider it as a step-by-step journey where each practice session serves as a building block toward mastering mathematical skills.

Additionally, seeking support and clarification is crucial. If a concept remains challenging, don’t hesitate to ask questions during class or seek help from teachers, classmates, or additional resources. Understanding that it’s okay to seek assistance fosters a positive learning environment and helps overcome hurdles more effectively.

Approaching maths with a positive mindset is equally important. Rather than viewing it as an intimidating subject, try to see the challenges as opportunities for growth and improvement. Celebrate small victories and progress along the way.

In essence, my advice to students struggling with maths is to take it one step at a time, practice regularly, seek support when needed, and maintain a positive attitude towards the learning process. With dedication and perseverance, maths can become a more approachable and manageable subject.

Is there anything else you’d like to share about your experience as a maths teacher or your achievements?

As a maths teacher, my greatest achievement lies in witnessing my students consistently achieve high marks in their assessments. It reflects their dedication and effective collaboration in mastering challenging mathematical concepts. Beyond just scores, I find immense satisfaction in fostering a positive attitude towards maths, and watching my students approach the subject with enthusiasm and a deeper understanding.