The Baby Boomer classrooms were characterised by a straightforward and strict learning process. There was a paucity of technology, and instruction was based on tradition, organisation and physical contact. This period was characterised by numerous classroom exercises aimed at memorisation, handwriting and discipline among groups. These activities determined good academic habits and social behaviour.
Morning Roll Call
Each day of school was opened with a roll call. Students answered in turn by responding to their name being called by the teachers who said their name. This exercise made people attentive and respectful to authority. It also allowed teachers to retain order and learn the names of students.
Penmanship Practice
The importance of writing in a neat way was highly stressed. Cursive writing was done on a daily basis in notebooks with lined paper. Letters were fixed, and spaces ruled with care on the part of teachers. This practice was a lesson in patience, accuracy and discipline.
Memorising Times Tables
One of the learning techniques was memorisation. Students were asked to recite the multiplication table together. The test of memory used by teachers was done by oral as well as written questions. This is the task that reinforced the ability to perform mental mathematical operations and fast thinking.
Reading Aloud in Class
Learners would often read aloud from textbooks. The exercise enhanced pronunciation, listening and confidence. There were no errors in teaching since mistakes would be corrected instantly. Reading aloud was also a good way for the students to follow lessons. This practice helped to focus and participate despite the nervousness experienced by some students, as well as build language skills.
Spelling Bees
Spelling bees were popular and aggressive. Students were lined up and spelled words one after another aloud. Wrong responses resulted in being dropped. This exercise promoted vocabulary development, focus and self-confidence. It also provided classroom excitement.
Dictation Exercises
Sentences were read aloud as the teachers read and students wrote them. Dictation enhanced grammar, spelling and listening. Students were taught how to be keen on details. Mistakes were watched over strictly. The practice would enhance language accuracy and discipline.
Silent Reading Time
There would be a silent reading time in classrooms. Students read books or textbooks in the libraries or at their desks without saying anything. This activity promoted concentration and self-learning. Strict attention was paid to silence.
Copying Notes from the Board
Teachers displayed full lessons on a board, and students wrote them in notebooks. This was a taxing undertaking and needed patience and care. Note-taking was used to encourage learning by repetition. It was also a stimulus to order and cleanliness.
Oration on Lessons from Memory
The students would be called upon to repeat lessons. This exercise enhanced the recall and verbal abilities. It promoted good preparation and self-belief. Accuracy and clarity were treasured by teachers. Recitation assisted the students in learning to be disciplined and responsible towards their learning.
Teacher-Led Drills
Subjects that share drills include common sense. The questions posed by teachers were short and fast, and students responded to them quickly. This exercise enhanced remembering and attention. Errors were fixed in time. Spills were used to reinforce learning by practising and being disciplined.
Sitting in Assigned Seats
Learners were seated in permanent rows as determined by the instructor. Switching of seats was not allowed without permission. This exercise promoted discipline and reduced disturbances. The seating pattern assisted the teachers in controlling the behaviour and discipline.
Strict Classroom Silence
During lessons, one was expected to be quiet. One was not supposed to talk without asking. This exercise provided a serious learning atmosphere. The learners were taught patience and self-control. Teachers thought that silence was more effective in enhancing concentration and respect.
Oral Exams and Questioning
Oral tests were used by teachers in order to test knowledge. Students were asked questions to answer in the opinion of the whole class. This practice enhanced the ability to speak and think fast. It also promoted frequent learning.
