The Art of Giving Constructive Feedback – A Teacher’s View

admin — Thu, 11 Sep 2025 12:22:37 +0000

Feedback is one of the most powerful tools in education. At Verbum Dei Academy and Verbum Dei International College, teachers understand that the way feedback is delivered can either motivate a student to grow or discourage them from trying. Constructive feedback is not just about pointing out mistakes—it’s about guiding students toward improvement with encouragement, clarity, and care.

1. Focusing on Growth, Not Just Grades

Teachers at Verbum Dei remind students that feedback is about progress, not perfection. Instead of dwelling only on what went wrong, feedback highlights what was done well and offers clear suggestions for improvement.

2. Balancing Positives with Areas to Improve

Constructive feedback often follows the “sandwich approach”: begin with positive observations, point out areas for improvement, and end with encouragement. This approach helps students remain motivated while also addressing challenges honestly.

3. Being Specific and Action-Oriented

General comments like “good job” or “try harder” may not help students. Verbum Dei teachers provide detailed guidance—for example, “your introduction is strong, but adding examples will make your essay more convincing.”

4. Encouraging Self-Reflection

Teachers don’t just hand out corrections—they ask students to reflect. By asking questions such as “what do you think you could improve here?” students take ownership of their learning and become more independent thinkers.

5. Delivering Feedback with Empathy

Tone matters. Teachers at Verbum Dei deliver feedback with kindness and respect, ensuring that even criticism feels like an opportunity rather than a punishment. This builds trust and strengthens teacher-student relationships.

6. Providing Timely Feedback

Feedback is most effective when it comes soon after the task. Teachers strive to return assignments quickly so students can apply the suggestions while the task is still fresh in their minds.

7. Recognizing Individual Differences

Every child responds to feedback differently. Verbum Dei teachers adapt their feedback style—some students may need detailed explanations, while others thrive on short, motivating reminders.

8. Making Feedback a Conversation

Feedback is not a one-way street. Teachers encourage dialogue by allowing students to ask questions, clarify doubts, and express how they feel about their progress.

Conclusion

At Verbum Dei schools, feedback is more than correction—it’s guidance, motivation, and empowerment. By giving constructive feedback, teachers help students not only improve academically but also develop resilience, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning.

Time Management Tips Teachers Share with Students

admin — Thu, 11 Sep 2025 12:22:04 +0000

Time is one of the most valuable resources for learners. Managing it wisely can be the difference between success and stress. At Verbum Dei Academy and Verbum Dei International College, teachers work closely with students to develop effective time management skills that not only improve academic performance but also prepare them for life beyond school.

1. Teaching the Value of Planning

Teachers encourage students to plan ahead. From creating simple daily routines in the lower classes to using planners or calendars in secondary school, students learn to map out their tasks and deadlines.

2. Breaking Tasks into Smaller Steps

Large assignments can overwhelm students. Teachers guide them in breaking tasks into smaller, manageable parts—making progress feel achievable and reducing procrastination.

3. Prioritizing Responsibilities

Not all tasks are equal. At Verbum Dei, students are taught to distinguish between urgent and important tasks. Teachers often use practical examples—like preparing for a test versus arranging class materials—to help students make better choices.

4. Establishing Healthy Study Routines

Teachers emphasize the power of consistency. Younger pupils are encouraged to dedicate short, regular times for study, while older students practice setting longer, focused sessions with short breaks in between.

5. Avoiding Last-Minute Rushes

Teachers often remind students of the stress that comes with last-minute work. By modeling preparedness—such as checking assignments early—they encourage learners to adopt proactive habits.

6. Encouraging Balance Between Work and Play

Effective time management also means scheduling breaks. Verbum Dei teachers remind students that rest, exercise, and hobbies refresh the mind and improve productivity.

7. Using Tools and Technology

For older students, teachers introduce digital tools like reminders, alarms, and apps that help with scheduling. This prepares them for using similar tools in higher education and professional life.

8. Leading by Example

Teachers at Verbum Dei know that children learn by observing. By arriving on time, meeting deadlines, and staying organized, teachers model good time management for students to emulate.

Conclusion

Time management is not just a skill for passing exams; it is a life skill. By equipping students with these strategies, Verbum Dei teachers empower them to take control of their time and build habits that will serve them well in school, university, and beyond.

teacher guidance - VERBUM DEI ACADEMY & VERBUM DEI INT'L COLLEGE

The Art of Giving Constructive Feedback – A Teacher’s View

1. Focusing on Growth, Not Just Grades

2. Balancing Positives with Areas to Improve

3. Being Specific and Action-Oriented

4. Encouraging Self-Reflection

5. Delivering Feedback with Empathy

6. Providing Timely Feedback

7. Recognizing Individual Differences

8. Making Feedback a Conversation

Conclusion

Time Management Tips Teachers Share with Students

1. Teaching the Value of Planning

2. Breaking Tasks into Smaller Steps

3. Prioritizing Responsibilities

4. Establishing Healthy Study Routines

5. Avoiding Last-Minute Rushes

6. Encouraging Balance Between Work and Play

7. Using Tools and Technology

8. Leading by Example

Conclusion