Laughter fills the classroom as CHS9 Algebra I teacher Gunjan Jain teaches her students function graphs by describing herself sitting on the lines.

“If I was sitting on the graph of a function whose slope is undefined, I would just keep falling and you would never find me,” Jain said. “My location would be undefined!”

Funny explanations like these are a staple in Jain’s classroom.  Algebra I’s complex equations and abstract concepts can make students anxious and hesitant to participate. However, Jain creates an environment where students feel comfortable, yet excited to learn.

Jain uses imagery, rhymes and fun activities to keep her students engaged and able to retain information. She also ensures students do not lose interest by incorporating brain breaks and games that sustain motivation throughout the 90 minutes.

“Sometimes I’ll see that they’re looking tired or bored and I’ll say, ‘OK, let’s play a game’ or ‘Let’s take a break,” Jain said. ”I want to keep the class fun and interesting,”

This open, fun-filled environment is appreciated by her students. They recognize the effort she puts into making the class engaging and enjoyable.

“It’s a little bit chaotic with the students, but she makes sure that you know the material and she’ll really help you through it,” freshman Anjini Subramanian said.

Jain achieves this high energy environment by using every minute of class time, avoiding tutorials outside of class. She focuses on identifying when students are struggling and takes the time to help them during the period rather than assigning tutoring.

“I move the kids who are doing well further away and bring the kids who need more help closer to me so I can help them,” Jain said. “We do have hour block lunch, but I try not to assign tutoring then. During lunch the students want to talk to their friends or attend clubs so they are not really thinking about math.”

Jain makes the most of the time she has with her students in class, but still allows time to unwind. In fact, Jain makes it a point to give her students free time and allows them to talk and sit with their friends.

“[Jain] lets us have our own free environment,” Subramanian said.  “No one takes advantage of it, and it helps with making the class more fun compared to all of our other classes.”

Jain’s dedication and impact on her students does not go unnoticed.

“[Jain] always does whatever she can for her students to be successful,” CHS9 assistant principal Jessica Lynch said. “Through working with students in class, tutorials and in interventions, she is always meeting the needs of her students. I enjoy her being part of our CHS9 family.”

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