Teachers get time to take a relaxing vacation, too
Students may have their own plans for their three-week-long winter break, but teachers have a word of advice to share on being productive over the holidays.
Latha Narasimhan, a teacher at Sharjah Indian School, said the break is a good time to catch up on “extra studying”, but also to spend some quality family time.
“Holidays are synonymous with relaxation, rejuvenation and revival of hobbies and interests. The wonderful winter season provides everyone with a lot of opportunities for outdoor games and fun — activities that we cannot possibly do in this part of the world during summer. Family time and get-togethers find their place, too,” Narasimhan said.
“However, a few hours can be dedicated to academic improvement, too, as during a regular school day, tight schedules don’t usually allow students to focus on in-depth studies and consolidation of concepts. Going beyond the syllabus and stepping to the application level all happen during the holidays when the mind is more relaxed.
“Spending a few hours of study during the winter holidays may be more fruitful than studying on school days. The pressure and anxiety that students experience due to exam stress can be eased to a certain extent because they won’t have to cram anymore.”
An innovation activator at Gems Dubai American Academy Cheryl Haney, has some suggestions for other teachers.
She said these breaks allow teachers to take care of themselves for them to return to classrooms refreshed and ready to take on new students, the curriculum and the New Year.
“Dive into a good book. This is a great time to read that professional article or a book your principal or co-worker recommended. Do something new that you wouldn’t normally do; see a movie by yourself; hike a mountain; or take a spa day. Take time learn something new, sign up for Apple Teacher or Microsoft Innovative Educator. These are great ways to elevate your classroom,” Haney said.
“Unplug, put your phone and electronics away, and spend time with friends and family. School breaks are a great time to do something new, download the app 1SE and take a one-second video or photo of your day and upload it — at the end of the year, you will have a lovely video of your life to look back on.”
The pressure and anxiety that students experience due to exam stress can be eased to a certain extent because they won’t have to cram anymore.”
Latha Narasimhan, teacher, Sharjah
Indian School
Unplug, put your phone and electronics away, and spend time with friends and family. School breaks are a great time to do something new.”
Cheryl Haney, innovation activator,
Gems Dubai American Academy