My Physics Practical Class

Since most of the students were in participating mode for upcoming annual function so I just had handful number of students in my Physics  Practical class today . As class xi physics teacher my target was to complete the experiment of “ To find focal length of convex lens by plotting graphs “ . Conventionally going I would have followed strategy explaining aim and procedure and ask students to find out readings .

But then I thought why should I go in this way . Let them explore on their own . So I just gave them aim , the apparatus and first step “ Find out the focal length of Convex lens “ Now I was just observing them . Initially students were staring at me with hope that Ma’am will help us to find out the focal length . But then they realized it was of no use approaching me but instead they got the sign that they have to explore themselves .

I just sit at one of the corner , observing and listening them .

I had two groups each of roughly five students . Slowly one student from one of the group initiated and took paper , lens , scale and tried to find out focal length . Looking at him the other members also got motivation and started working with him . So this way one of the group found out .

The other group had a kind of careless attitude towards practical . They were like coming to physics practical class is just gossiping or free period . They had non serious attitude initially . So for me at that time it became challenging and in my mind I was speculating  whether this group will be able to work on experiment or just waste the allotted practical periods

All of a sudden , I noticed one of the student of group B started tinkering with lens , optical bench . Now from their own understanding group B found out focal length but it was the wrong way and the wrong reading . Now I gave them cue here , guided and motivated them to rectify their procedure and get the correct reading . To my surprise , group B started taking interest in practical and for me that was achievement as a teacher .

So till now , both the groups A and B were ready with their focal length values .

Suddenly , a student asked Ma’am is it a convex lens and I felt very bad not for student but for myself that my class xi student is not aware of convex and concave lens .

Then I gave them two lenses and ask them to identify them as convex and concave lens .

When they identified , I had a great relief and felt a sense of achievement that now my students know this .

Next part was reading through optical bench and both the groups finished the readings .

Now , why I am discussing my normal class here because

Ø Experiments in Physics are integral part of Physics learning . As Science teachers , we could not devote much time with students in labs . Reasons can be many from huge syllabus to support from school management .

Ø Pedagogy of taking practical classes is still a questionable issue .

Ø Practical’s Examination System in India needs to revive . Equal weightage should be given to Physics Practicals .

Just like the saying “ Enjoy little things in life instead of waiting for big moments “

Similarly I believe small  initiatives by teachers daily  like observing students , changing pedagogy time to time can make a huge difference .” We cannot bring about a paradigm shift in one day but atleast can work continuously with hope

“ Hum honge Kamyaaab ekdin “