04/28/08
Mary started an English reading program for grades 4-8 two mornings a week at the Iva Primary School. Little did she realize how great the children are and the paucity of resources when she offered her services.
She has basically has no syllabus to work from, no prior program which to refer, no materials with which to work, no assistant to help translate, no idea how large her class will be, no blackboard, no idea what materials are appropriate, there are no school books to get some idea of the reading level, and no air-conditioning. She is totally on her own as she feels her way. Using gestures, acting things out, and trying to identify a child who can speak some English, she is an amusing, if not educational sight to behold.
Teaching is a tough job no matter where you may be. I do think Mary is carrying non-verbal teaching methods to new levels. She loves it and is good at it. They feed her as well. The kids love her too. Mary is quickly becoming a celebrity in the village. The feeling of doing something worthwhile makes the other hardships of day-to-day living that much easier.
Mary started an English reading program for grades 4-8 two mornings a week at the Iva Primary School. Little did she realize how great the children are and the paucity of resources when she offered her services.
She has basically has no syllabus to work from, no prior program which to refer, no materials with which to work, no assistant to help translate, no idea how large her class will be, no blackboard, no idea what materials are appropriate, there are no school books to get some idea of the reading level, and no air-conditioning. She is totally on her own as she feels her way. Using gestures, acting things out, and trying to identify a child who can speak some English, she is an amusing, if not educational sight to behold.
Teaching is a tough job no matter where you may be. I do think Mary is carrying non-verbal teaching methods to new levels. She loves it and is good at it. They feed her as well. The kids love her too. Mary is quickly becoming a celebrity in the village. The feeling of doing something worthwhile makes the other hardships of day-to-day living that much easier.
No comments:
Post a Comment