Today, after my lesson about algebra, a learner came up to me, quietly - almost whispering, asking a question.
Standing and waiting for me to reply, I looked at him and said: “I didn’t hear you”
A little bit louder this time, he said:”I need to use the bathroom”
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com
Again, waiting for my response, I said “I did not hear you”
The expression on his face was priceless and even in a louder voice, he said “I MUST GO TO THE BATHROOM”
I looked at him, seconds went by, I had to keep a straight face and again I said:”I did not hear you”
Now this boy was standing there not knowing how to deal with this deaf teacher. He decided his need for the bathroom is not that big and went to sit down.
Just as he went to sit, another learner stood up, came to me and asked:”Mam, may I please go to the bathroom?”
I immediately said “Yes, of course, remember to wash you hands when you are finished”
The first boy sat at his table, put up his hand and asked why I didn’t let him to go to the bathroom, as he was the first to ask?
I looked at him and asked what the difference was between his question and the second learner.
He thought for a while, looked me straight in the eyes, ready to give his answer.
He bowed his head, as if feeling ashamed and said to me:”Mam, I did not say please”
I said: “Ok, ask your question again”
He stood up and asked if he may please go to the bathroom.
Now I can be very sarcastic - I looked at him and said NO!
After watching his face drop, I told him I was just kidding and that he may go to the bathroom, seeing that he asked so nicely 😊.
He went out of the class with a smile on his face.
When he came back, he came to me, looked me in the eyes again and said: “Thank you mam, thank you for not only teaching me maths, but also some manners” , he gave me a hug and went on with his work.
https://lh4.googleusercontent.com
I felt ashamed but also happy at that very moment.
A learner who saw that I am trying to help, starting with something so small.
I giggled everytime I looked at him and went on with the day with a smile on my face.
Thank you learners for also teaching me!!