Upon learning that I had an additional period with my fourth graders, an effusive grin crossed my face, sending an exhilarating wave of endorphins throughout my body. Of course, I was ecstatic at the opportunity to consolidate their learning. I took out my copy of “A Nasty Accident” and began to extract the important vocabulary for them.

Not only did I manage to highlight high-probability words that might appear for the exam (e.g. screeched, onlookers, victims), but I also introduced higher-level vocabulary, such as succumbed to one’s injuries and casualties. It was a truly collaborative experience since several students threw me words that they had acquired from their tuition centre. Case in point: hyperventilated.

After all these years, I still enjoy being in the classroom. For that, I’m grateful.