The Art of Reading, Reflection and Experiential Learning- Ravi Thakur

 My Family and Other Animals by Gerald Durrell

As an English teacher, this story taught me that good writing creates a vivid picture in the reader's mind. Gerald Durrell does not merely narrate events; he makes us experience the entire scene. The soft mud beneath the feet, the snake moving through the water, and the detailed description of the stranger's face make the scene come alive. I also learned that a story becomes interesting when it defies expectations. Instead of scolding the boy, the stranger calmly offers him grapes and later turns out to be a prisoner on a weekend break. This taught me that creating realistic and natural characters makes a story much more engaging than simply presenting a moral lesson.

As a teacher, I must remember the following points while narrating stories to students:

1. Voice modulation and expressions: I should not read a story in a monotonous voice. Instead, I should use appropriate voice modulation and expressions to help children visualise the scenes. During exciting moments, such as catching the snake or meeting the stranger, varying the pitch and pace of my voice is very important.

2. Teaching new vocabulary: New words should not be taught through boring lectures. Their meanings should be explained naturally through the context of the story.

3. Building curiosity: I should create suspense by pausing before important moments and encouraging students to predict what might happen next.

4. Encouraging active participation: Rather than keeping students as silent listeners, I should ask them how they would feel if they were standing in the muddy water or talking to the stranger.

These strategies can make storytelling more engaging, interactive and meaningful for students.

Mr. Ravi Thakur

TGT English