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TEACHING THE TRIPOD GRIP TO PRESCHOOLERS

The tripod grip is the correct way to hold a pencil. This entails using the thumb, the index finger and middle finger.
Here’s a simple guide to enable preschoolers achieve the tripod grip

1. Start with Fine Motor Preparation
Before expecting a child to hold a pencil correctly, build their hand and finger strength through play.
Do activities like:
*Playdough rolling and pinching
*Pe***ng or clipping exercises
*Threading beads or pasta
*Tearing paper into small bits
*Using tongs or tweezers to pick up objects squeezing to clip cards or pictures
These activities strengthen the small muscles needed for the tripod grip.

2. Use the Right Tools
Short crayons or pencils: Long pencils encourage an awkward grip. Use broken crayons, half-sized pencils, or small chalk pieces . They force the use of fingertips.
Begin with chunky crayons or triangular pencils to help guide finger placement.

3. Introduce the Grip Playfully
You can teach the tripod grip through imaginative play For example:
The “Pinch and Rest” Technique:
Pinch: Ask the child to pinch the pencil with the thumb and index finger (“like a crab’s claw”).
Rest: Let the middle finger act as the “bed” where the pencil rests.

4. Practice with Tracing and Prewriting
Start with big movements first (gross motor), then move to fine motor:
Air writing or tracing on sand/rice trays
Drawing big shapes on easel boards or vertical surfaces (encourages wrist control)
Progress to tracing lines, curves, and shapes on paper

5. Correct Gently, Don’t Force
If a child uses an incorrect grip:
Don’t scold or constantly correct , instead, model it and give tools that naturally guide proper grip.
Praise the child's effort

6. Consistency and Observation
Each child develops fine motor control at a different pace.
Watch for readiness signs:
Can they use a pincer grasp?
Can they isolate finger movements?
If not, go back to fine motor play before focusing on writing.

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Students Character and Personality

Abstract

Character and personality play a crucial role in shaping an individual's identity and success in life. Character refers to a person’s moral and ethical qualities, including honesty, integrity, discipline, and self-control, which guide behavior and decision-making. In contrast, personality encompasses physical, psychological, emotional, and social traits that influence how individuals interact with others. While personality determines outward expression, character reflects inner values and strength.

This article explores the essential traits of strong character, such as courage, reliability, respect, responsibility, and empathy. It also provides practical guidance for students to develop a high moral character through honesty, discipline, hard work, and accountability. Building strong character not only fosters personal growth but also contributes to a just and ethical society. The study emphasizes that while personality may attract attention, it is character that earns lasting respect and trust.

▪️What is Character?

Character refers to the moral and ethical qualities of a person. It consists of beliefs, moral values, discipline, and self-control that guide a person’s behavior. A strong character is built on honesty, integrity, and the ability to make the right choices, even when no one is watching. It determines how a person responds to challenges and treats others.

▪️What is Personality?

Personality is the combination of physical, psychological, emotional, and social traits that shape an individual’s behavior and interactions. It includes how a person thinks, feels, and acts in different situations. While personality is often influenced by genetics and environment, character is developed through conscious effort and moral choices.

▪️Character vs. Personality

Character is about who you are when no one is watching. It is built over time through actions and decisions.

Personality is about how you present yourself to the world. It includes traits like confidence, sociability, and temperament.

While personality can make a person likable, character makes a person trustworthy and respected.

▪️Positive Traits of Character

Developing a strong character requires cultivating positive traits such as:

1. Courage – Standing up for what is right, even in difficult situations.

2. Honesty – Being truthful and sincere in words and actions.

3. Reliability – Keeping promises and being dependable.

4. Punctuality – Valuing time and being on time for commitments.

5. Loyalty – Showing faithfulness and commitment to relationships and responsibilities.

6. Integrity – Acting with moral principles and doing the right thing always.

7. Respect – Treating others with dignity and valuing different opinions.

8. Responsibility – Being accountable for one’s actions and duties.

9. Courtesy – Displaying good manners and treating others politely.

10. Accountability – Owning up to mistakes and learning from them.

11. Diligence – Working hard with dedication and persistence.

12. Perseverance – Staying determined despite challenges.

13. Self-Control – Managing emotions and actions with discipline.

14. Fairness – Treating others justly and without bias.

15. Empathy and Kindness – Understanding and caring for others' feelings and needs

▪️How Can Students Build a Strong Character?

Students can develop high moral character by practicing the following values consistently:

1. Honesty – Always tell the truth and be transparent in actions.

2. Discipline – Follow rules, stay focused, and manage time effectively.

3. Hard Work – Put in effort and stay dedicated to studies and responsibilities.

4. Respect – Show respect to teachers, parents, and peers.

5. Fairness – Treat everyone equally without discrimination.

6. Empathy – Understand and care for others’ emotions and struggles.

7. Kindness – Be helpful and considerate towards others.

8. Responsibility – Take charge of personal duties and be dependable.

9. Accountability – Accept mistakes, learn from them, and strive to improve.

10. Truthfulness – Speak and act with sincerity and integrity.

Conclusion: A person’s character defines their true worth and determines their success in life. While personality may attract others, it is strong character that earns respect, trust, and lasting relationships. Students who develop good character traits will not only excel academically but also become responsible and ethical leaders in society.

References

1. Covey, S. R. (1989). The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change. Free Press.

2. Maxwell, J. C. (2003). The 21 Indispensable Qualities of a Leader: Becoming the Person Others Will Want to Follow. Thomas Nelson.

3. Peterson, C., & Seligman, M. E. P. (2004). Character Strengths and Virtues: A Handbook and Classification. Oxford University Press.

4. Lickona, T. (1991). Educating for Character: How Our Schools Can Teach Respect and Responsibility. Bantam Books.

5. Duckworth, A. (2016). Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance. Scribner.

6. Aristotle. (350 BCE). Nicomachean Ethics (W. D. Ross, Trans.).

7. Frankl, V. E. (1946). Man’s Search for Meaning. Beacon Press.

8. Brooks, D. (2015). The Road to Character. Random House.

9. Hill, N. (1937). Think and Grow Rich. The Ralston Society.

10. Damon, W. (2004). The Moral Advantage: How to Succeed in Business by Doing the Right Thing. Berrett-Koehler Publishers.

By: Kamal Chandra Lohani, UN Educationist.

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Why some children can't learn, and how to switch their Brains Back On.

By: Gbemisola Olomo

Have you ever seen a child completely freeze in the middle of a lesson? Or a student who suddenly refuses to engage, despite being perfectly capable? It’s frustrating, isn’t it? But the truth is, when children feel stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed, their brains literally shut down – and learning becomes impossible.

The Reptilian Brain: Why It Takes Over

At the base of the brain sits what neuroscientists call the reptilian brain – the part responsible for survival. When a child feels safe, their prefrontal cortex (the part that helps with problem-solving, reasoning, and learning) is switched on. But the moment stress kicks in, the reptilian brain takes control, triggering fight, flight, freeze, or fawn responses.

Once this happens, it doesn’t matter how good our lesson is – their brain isn’t in learning mode anymore.

What Triggers This Response in the Classroom?

Even in a school setting, there are many things that can send a child into survival mode:

- Feeling Unsafe or Judged – If a child worries about getting an answer wrong, being embarrassed, or feeling unheard, they may shut down.
- High-Stakes Pressure – Tests, strict grading, or unrealistic expectations can cause anxiety that blocks learning.
- Shame or Embarrassment – A child who feels humiliated in front of their peers will likely disengage completely.
- Overstimulation – A noisy or chaotic classroom can overwhelm some children’s nervous systems.
- Physical Needs Not Met – Hunger, exhaustion, or lack of movement can send a child into survival mode.
- Past Trauma or Stress – Some children have experienced hardships that make their brains hyper-vigilant, even in safe environments.

So, How Do We Switch Their Brains Back On?

Luckily, there are simple ways to help children feel safe, regulated, and ready to learn:

• Connection Before Correction – Build relationships first. A child who trusts you is far less likely to shut down.
• Create a Safe, Supportive Environment – Let children know that mistakes are part of learning, not something to fear.

• Slow Breathing & Mindfulness – Teaching simple breathing exercises can calm the nervous system and bring thinking back online.

• Movement & Play – Physical activity helps reset the brain. A quick movement break can make all the difference.

• Encourage Curiosity – Learning should feel like an adventure, not a test of ability.

• Provide Quiet, Low-Stimulation Spaces – Some children need moments of calm to stay regulated.

At the heart of it all, children learn best when they feel safe and supported. If we can create that environment, we’ll see fewer shutdowns and more moments of real, engaged, joyful learning.

If we want them to learn from us, then we must let them know that they matter and that they are safe in our presence. It's as simple as that!

*40 MOST LIKELY QUESTION AND ANSWERS FROM THE APPROVED 2025 JAMB EXAMINATION NOVEL, THE LEKKI HEADMASTER NOVEL*

1. What is the primary setting of "The Lekki Headmaster"?

A. Abuja

B. Lekki, Lagos

C. Kano

D. Port Harcourt

Answer: B. Lekki, Lagos

2. Who is the protagonist of the novel?

A. Mr. Alabi

B. Mr. Bepo

C. Mr. Ojo

D. Mr. Garba

Answer: B. Mr. Bepo

3. What is Mr. Bepo's profession?

A. Doctor

B. Teacher

C. Headmaster

D. Engineer

Answer: C. Headmaster

4. What is the main challenge Mr. Bepo faces in the story?

A. Financial difficulties

B. Resistance to educational reforms

C. Personal health issues

D. Family problems

Answer: B. Resistance to educational reforms


5. Which theme is prominently explored in the novel?

A. Political corruption

B. Educational reform

C. Economic disparity

D. Environmental conservation

Answer: B. Educational reform

6. How does Mr. Bepo attempt to improve the school?

A. By increasing tuition fees

B. By introducing new teaching methods

C. By hiring more staff

D. By reducing the school hours

Answer: B. By introducing new teaching methods

7. What is the community's initial reaction to Mr. Bepo's reforms?

A. Enthusiastic support

B. Indifference

C. Strong opposition

D. Confusion

Answer: C. Strong opposition

8. Who is Mr. Alabi in the story?

A. A fellow teacher

B. A parent

C. A government official

D. A student

Answer: A. A fellow teacher

9. What role does Mr. Alabi play in the narrative?

A. He supports Mr. Bepo's reforms.

B. He opposes Mr. Bepo's reforms.

C. He remains neutral.

D. He is unaware of the reforms.

Answer: B. He opposes Mr. Bepo's reforms.

10. How does Mr. Bepo handle the opposition he faces?

A. By resigning

B. By compromising his principles

C. By engaging in dialogue and demonstrating the benefits of his reforms

D. By retaliating

Answer: C. By engaging in dialogue and demonstrating the benefits of his reforms

11. What is the significance of the title "The Lekki Headmaster"?

A. It refers to Mr. Bepo's leadership role in the school.

B. It is the name of the school.

C. It is a nickname for Mr. Alabi.

D. It refers to a government official.

Answer: A. It refers to Mr. Bepo's leadership role in the school.

12. Which character represents traditional educational methods?

A. Mr. Bepo

B. Mr. Alabi

C. Mrs. Adebayo

D. Mr. Garba

Answer: B. Mr. Alabi

13. What is the community's attitude towards education at the beginning of the novel?

A. Highly supportive

B. Indifferent

C. Skeptical and resistant to change

D. Actively involved

Answer: C. Skeptical and resistant to change

14. How does Mr. Bepo's leadership style differ from traditional methods?

A. He focuses on rote learning.

B. He encourages critical thinking and student participation.

C. He emphasizes corporal punishment.

D. He discourages extracurricular activities.

Answer: B. He encourages critical thinking and student participation.

15. What is the climax of the novel?

A. Mr. Bepo's resignation

B. The community's acceptance of the reforms

C. Mr. Alabi's promotion

D. The school's closure

Answer: B. The community's acceptance of the reforms

16. What does Mr. Bepo's character symbolize?

A. Tradition

B. Innovation and progress

C. Corruption

D. Apathy

Answer: B. Innovation and progress

17. How does the novel address societal issues?

A. By focusing on political corruption

B. By highlighting the importance of education in societal development

C. By depicting economic struggles

D. By portraying environmental challenges

Answer: B. By highlighting the importance of education in societal development

18. What is the resolution of the conflict in the story?

A. Mr. Bepo leaves the school.

B. The community embraces the educational reforms.

C. Mr. Alabi is transferred.

D. The school is privatized.

Answer: B. The community embraces the educational reforms.

19. Which character serves as a mentor to Mr. Bepo?

A. Mr. Alabi

B. Mrs. Adebayo

C. Mr. Garba

D. Mr. Ojo

Answer: B. Mrs. Adebayo

20. What role does Mrs. Adebayo play in the novel?

A. She opposes Mr. Bepo's reforms.

B. She supports and guides Mr. Bepo.

C. She is indifferent to the changes.

D. She is a government official.

Answer: B. She supports and guides Mr. Bepo.

21. How does the novel portray the relationship between teachers and students?

A. Authoritarian

B. Distant and formal

C. Collaborative and nurturing

D. Competitive

Answer: C. Collaborative and nurturing.

22. What is the significance of the school's location in Lekki?

A. It symbolizes urban progress.

B. It highlights educational challenges in urban settings.

C. It represents a rural community's struggle for education.

D. It has no special significance.

Answer: B. It highlights educational challenges in urban settings.

23. How does Mr. Bepo demonstrate resilience in the face of opposition?

A. By refusing to compromise his values

B. By isolating himself from the community

C. By seeking external support from authorities

D. By stepping down from his position

Answer: A. By refusing to compromise his values

24. What does the character of Mr. Alabi represent in the novel?

A. Corruption in education

B. Tradition and resistance to change

C. Leadership and innovation

D. The voice of the community

Answer: B. Tradition and resistance to change

25. How does Mr. Bepo win the trust of his students?

A. By giving them incentives

B. By listening to their concerns and promoting active learning

C. By relaxing school rules

D. By focusing only on academic achievements

Answer: B. By listening to their concerns and promoting active learning

26. What conflict is central to the plot of the novel?

A. Mr. Bepo's battle with personal health issues

B. The clash between traditional and modern educational methods

C. A financial scandal at the school

D. The rivalry between two schools

Answer: B. The clash between traditional and modern educational methods.

27. Which student stands out as a key example of Mr. Bepo's success?

A. Tunde

B. Sade

C. Adebayo

D. Chinedu

Answer: C. Adebayo

28. How does Mr. Bepo's reform impact the academic performance of the school?

A. It declines initially but improves later.

B. It remains stagnant.

C. It declines completely.

D. It leads to immediate success.

Answer: A. It declines initially but improves later.

29. What is the role of parents in the novel?

A. They fully support the reforms from the start.

B. They are skeptical but eventually support Mr. Bepo.

C. They are indifferent to the school's progress.

D. They oppose Mr. Bepo throughout the story.

Answer: B. They are skeptical but eventually support Mr. Bepo.


30. What does the eventual success of Mr. Bepo's reforms signify?

A. The inevitability of resistance in leadership

B. The power of determination and innovation

C. The limitations of traditional education

D. The challenges of urban development

Answer: B. The power of determination and innovation

---

More Questions on Characters and Symbolism

31. How does the community initially view Mr. Bepo's leadership?

A. As an opportunity for growth

B. As a threat to traditional values

C. As a chance to modernize education

D. As insignificant

Answer: B. As a threat to traditional values
MrConfirm

32. What drives Mr. Bepo to persist despite challenges?

A. His ambition for personal recognition

B. His belief in the transformative power of education

C. His rivalry with Mr. Alabi

D. Pressure from the government

Answer: B. His belief in the transformative power of education

33. What do the school's initial poor conditions symbolize?

A. Corruption in the education system

B. The neglect of societal values

C. The challenges of reforming traditional systems

D. Apathy towards urban schools

Answer: C. The challenges of reforming traditional systems

34. How does Mr. Alabi attempt to undermine Mr. Bepo?

A. By spreading rumors about him

B. By sabotaging school programs

C. By instigating parents against him

D. All of the above

Answer: D. All of the above

35. How do the students respond to Mr. Bepo's new teaching methods?

A. They immediately adapt and excel.

B. They resist initially but later appreciate the methods.

C. They organize protests against him.

D. They ignore his efforts.

Answer: B. They resist initially but later appreciate the methods.

36. What role does the District Education Officer play in the novel?

A. A supporter of Mr. Bepo's reforms

B. A critic of Mr. Bepo's leadership

C. An observer with no real impact

D. A mediator between Mr. Bepo and the community

Answer: A. A supporter of Mr. Bepo's reforms

37. What major event leads to the acceptance of Mr. Bepo's reforms?

A. A successful academic competitions and this

B. A public forum organized by the school

C. The resignation of Mr. Alabi

D. Recognition from a government official

Answer: A. A successful academic competition

38. How does Mr. Alabi's character evolve by the end of the story?

A. He becomes a supporter of Mr. Bepo.

B. He leaves the school to pursue another job.

C. He continues to resist Mr. Bepo.

D. He admits his faults and apologizes.

Answer: D. He admits his faults and apologizes.

39. What do Mr. Bepo's efforts teach about leadership?

A. Leadership requires compromise at all times.

B. Effective leadership balances innovation with respect for tradition.

C. A leader must impose their ideas without opposition.

D. Leadership is not necessary in education.

Answer: B. Effective leadership balances innovation with respect for tradition.

40. How does the school (MrConfirm) symbolize hope for the community?

A. It becomes a model for other schools.

B. It fosters unity among parents and teachers.

C. It represents a break from societal neglect.

D. All of the above

Answer: D. All of the above

*Effective Classroom Management Techniques For a Productive Learning Environment*

Effective classroom management techniques are crucial for creating a conducive learning environment where both educators and students can thrive. This guide explores strategies that educators can implement to foster better discipline, engagement, and academic success in their classrooms. Whether it’s your first day or your 20th year, this guide will prove helpful to you and your network of educators.

*7 Effective Classroom Management Techniques.*

*Setting Clear Expectations.*

One of the fundamental aspects of effective classroom management is setting clear expectations from the outset. Clearly outline rules, routines, and academic goals to establish a structured environment. This provides students with a framework within which they can understand what is expected of them.

Practical Step: Create a set of classroom rules collaboratively with your students at the beginning of the school year. You can also revisit them each week to ensure they remain top of mind for both you and your students. This fosters a sense of ownership and ensures that everyone understands and agrees with the expectations.

*Establishing Positive Relationships.*

Building positive relationships with students is essential for effective management. When students feel respected and valued, they are more likely to follow rules and engage positively in classroom activities.

Practical Step: Take time to get to know each student individually. Use their names frequently, show interest in their lives outside of school, and provide positive reinforcement for good behaviour and academic achievements.

*Using Proactive Discipline Strategies.*

Proactive discipline strategies focus on preventing misbehaviour rather than simply reacting to it. By structuring lessons and activities to keep students engaged, educators can reduce disruptions and maintain a productive learning environment.

Practical Step: Implement strategies such as interactive lessons, group work, and hands-on activities that encourage student participation and minimise boredom or off-task behaviour.

*Consistency in Classroom Management.*

Consistency is key to effective classroom management. Students thrive when they know what to expect and can rely on consistent routines and consequences for their actions.

Practical Step: Establish consistent routines for daily activities, transitions between lessons, and classroom procedures. Be fair and predictable in enforcing rules and consequences to create a sense of stability.

*Encouraging Active Engagement.*

Engaged students are less likely to be disruptive. Encourage active participation by using a variety of teaching methods that cater to different learning styles and interests.

Practical Step: Incorporate interactive technologies, peer collaboration, and discussions into your lessons. Allow students to contribute ideas and opinions, fostering a sense of involvement and ownership in their learning.

*Using Assertive Language.*

Assertive language helps maintain authority while still being respectful towards students. It involves clear and firm communication of expectations and consequences without resorting to aggressive or passive-aggressive tones.

Practical Step: Practice using assertive language when addressing behavioural issues or giving instructions. State expectations clearly, explain the reasons behind rules, and calmly enforce consequences when necessary.

*Reflecting and Adapting.*

Effective classroom management is an ongoing process that requires reflection and adaptation. Regularly evaluate your strategies and make adjustments based on student responses and outcomes.

Practical Step: Schedule time for self-reflection and seek feedback from colleagues or mentors, e.g., weekly. Identify areas for improvement and implement changes gradually to continuously enhance your classroom management skills.

*Conclusion.*

By implementing these classroom management techniques, educators can create a positive and productive learning environment where students feel motivated and supported. Consistency, proactive strategies, and positive relationships are key to fostering a classroom atmosphere conducive to academic success.

Implement these techniques consistently, and observe how they contribute to a more engaged and disciplined classroom environment. Effective classroom management not only improves student behaviour but also enhances overall learning outcomes.

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