Over last weekend, I received news from one of my students’ mum that my primary three student achieved 83 marks in his SA2. I was extremely delighted when I heard this news. I was happier hearing this news than the other piece of news from another primary three student who scored 98.5 in science.

You may be wondering why I am happier over the news with lower marks than the news of almost full marks. The reason is because the student who scored 83 marks is a child with learning challenges. He started lessons with me end of May this year after failing his SA1. I faced many challenges teaching him.

For a start, his attention span was short. Secondly, for him to understand a science concept, I must think of innovative and simplified ways to explain to him in order for him to understand. I also realised that for him to improve, I must definitely enlist the help of his mum as I only see him 1.5-2 hours a week. Daily guidance at home is essential for him. As a result, I make detailed notes at the end of every lesson summarising clearly his weaknesses as well as the concepts to reinforce at home so that his mum can continue with the necessary home education. Despite these challenges, I enjoyed teaching him very much as he is a cheerful boy who always try to complete whatever assignments given to him and is committed to coming for every lesson.

I was overjoyed to hear that he improved so much as I did not expect it. Being his tutor, I know that there are still several areas he can improve on. However, the dedication of his mum and the boy’s hard work has spurred me to try even harder to teach him.