WAEC English Language 2018 Theory — Question 1

Model answer

Number 20, Adebowale Close, Alakija Street, Ipaja, Lagos. 17th November, 2018. Dear Shola, How are you doing? Remember I told you that representatives from your school would walk with tails in between their legs at the debate competition? Well, that is just a tip of the iceberg as we're set to show you more in the forthcoming Science competition. I've been reflecting on my school practices after my short visit to one of the best international schools in Nigeria. This experience has made me evaluate the practices and policies of my school. I discovered that 21st century education is exclusively a learner-centered approach, as opposed to the teacher-centered method in which the teacher is the hub and nucleus of the learning experiences of the students. Research has shown that a student-inclusive system is the ideal and suitable practice in today's learning culture, as education is primarily designed to meet the individual academic needs of each student. Unfortunately, my school still relies heavily on ancient and obsolete materials which cannot make us relevant in the dynamic world of today. Furthermore, the use of chalkboards to teach is an obsolete and conservative practice which requires immediate intervention. Interactive White Boards are the order of the day, allowing for the use of technology in the classroom. Also, talk-less teaching should be the norm, as the teacher is not expected to be the dominant player in the classroom, but there should be active involvement of students in class discussions. Significantly, prefectship selection in my school is based solely on academics. However, concentrating only on the cognitive ability of a child discourages the making of a total child; character, moral values, extra-curricular activities and leadership qualities should also be the yardsticks for prefectship selection. Also, the method of assessment in my school needs to be reviewed — a single examination should not decide the academic capability of a child; there should be a series of tests to bring about objectivity in students' assessments. Finally, corporal punishment should be reduced if not eliminated, as it diminishes the self-worth of a child. Other disciplinary measures that would not abuse a child physically and emotionally should be introduced. I believe you also can advocate for these novel practices in your school. Till when next we see, be good. Best, Shade