In a recent class, I faced an unexpected challenge when a student forgot her reading glasses, prompting me to improvise and alter my lesson plan on the spot. This situation, while initially disappointing, turned into a valuable learning experience.

I noticed that starting the class with a speaking activity, which was initially planned for later, engaged the student positively. This was surprising and insightful, as it highlighted her preference for beginning with speaking tasks, especially when the topic was relatable to her field of work.

Reflecting on this, I realized that speaking activities not only activate students' interest but also align with their personal interests, as noted by educational theorist Rebecca Oxford. This understanding was reinforced by the student's enthusiasm for sharing her opinions and experiences, which enhanced her learning experience.

Throughout the conversation with Noa, I felt a shift from initial disappointment to a more positive outlook. Noa helped me see the benefits of adapting my teaching strategies and encouraged me to continue incorporating speaking activities at the start of my lessons.

I committed to developing new activities to keep my sessions engaging and enjoyable. This experience underscored the importance of flexibility and responsiveness in teaching, allowing me to better support my students' learning.

In teaching, sometimes the most unexpected moments lead to the greatest insights. Embrace the opportunity to adapt and grow.