Week 2 Teaching

The real work has begun. I have an office (really a desk in a room with 9 other members of the English Department), complete with a chair and a view of the Big Goose Pagoda. I have also been given the use of a laptop while in the office. I feel a little awkward about it, I am the only one with a computer so I've offered it to any one in the department who wants to use it!

Being a native speaker has made me the resident English language 'expert'. Have I ever mentioned that I am a Natural Science major? None the less, I can usually answer the questions raised by the English Department (ED) staff; sometimes can't quote the rule but I explain as best I can.

My students are 7th grade level. I have 6 classes each with about 55 students. Most of the students are excited about a 'foreign' teacher and I am different from the norm. Not just in my dashing good looks, but also in presentation style. My experience in observing my peers here is that they stand on the stage (front of the room is raised about 18cm.) and present the lesson. Very traditional. My style is to be animated to keep the students attention, move about the room and use anything in the classroom as a teaching aide. So, there have been many wide eyes as we got used to each other.

The biggest challenge is the vocab level of the students. The book we are using was developed in Hong Kong and really is too advanced for the students. So, I develop the lesson plan, implement it and change it on the fly. Don't get me wrong, the key information doesn't change, but the words I choose and the amount of explanation will vary beyond what I had imagined.

This week I'm using both Powerpoint (PP) and the chalk board in order to keep the key points in view as I define, describe, draw or act out other words or terms.

I have had many observers in the classroom. Most of my ED peers, the Director (Mr. Zhang) and the vice-principal Mr. Liu. Tomorrow several senior level English teachers will observe me as well.

Long post, so this one must end! I am writing the blog 'blind' (can't access the blog myself) so if you have followup questions or suggestions send them to my e-mail jefhntr@yahoo.com.
See ya!