Day Two of teaching Memory English with Elementary and Middle school is over!!! Both yesterday and today I taught Memory English, which focused on Word Maps, Words in Context, Paraphrasing, Note-Taking, and the big finale of each class: the Critical Thinking Project. We have a lot to cover in 3 hours, and perhaps surprisingly it definitely takes all 3 hours to get anywhere.
After training, I expected students to be more advanced than what I have seen the past 2 days. So, it was kind of disappointing training left many of us with that impression. Maybe because it was the first 2 days with different kids each period I didn't get the responses I hope to get later in the term. Most of class is centered around discussion and reasoning, yet it is hard to do so with students don't want to talk! I do understand why they feel this way since they have already been in school for at least six hours, so another three or six is extremely exhausting. As I become better adjusted to these teaching methods and better understand these students, I hope to draw out more energy and excitement for them. It is difficult work for students, especially if their vocabulary is limited. One of my objectives for the coming weeks, other than encouraging more energy and participation, is louder volume. Some students mumble and I can hardly hear them. I feel like an old woman having to ask them to repeat themselves. haha I think this behavior also has to do with the regular school environment. I have not formed the impression that student opinion and voice is a big part of school hours. School is very rigorous. There is a CRCT-like test called the iBT students take that not only determines which middle schools, high schools, and colleges they will attend, but also their careers. One test, which can be 9 hours long, determines basically the next 30 years of their life. Talk about pressure!!! As a result, suicide is prevalent in South Korea. Japan and Korea have one of the higher numbers of suicide. Actually, yesterday the subway was shut down because of a jumper. The sub lines have glass sliding doors set up, which upon first glance appear to be for your safety, which they are, but more so to prevent jumpers.
Through the Critical Thinking Project student voice is more widely encouraged. The past two days students have created book covers about witches. My last class today was able to work on this project for a longer period of time than the other classes, mostly because at my error. I did not anticipate the lack of response or length to cover sections of our lesson. Again, time management will definitely need to improve as I become more accustomed to these students and teaching methods.
Some positives: LOVE my coworkers. I am actually very fortunate to be at this branch. 1) We all get along. The past 2 nights we've been out to dinner. They've also been very helpful to us newbies as we figure things out. Showing us a zillion shortcuts to our apartments, good things to eat, where to shop, ideas for teaching, etc. 2) They give dinner to us between the 2 classes. My branch is the only one that does this. It is privately owned so we're given more privileges. 3) Found out I'll have 6 days OFF around the middle of September due to the equivalent of Thanksgiving. Apparently the whole city shuts down sooo the 3 other trainees that I came with and I are trying to decide something fun and cheap we can do. 4) I live like 5 minutes from work, so no commuting!! That will definitely help save money.
Kids' personalities are also beginning to show through a bit. One girl always smiles at me, which of course makes me want to smile back. Another boy shared all about his travels through Europe, of course making me jealous. Oh, and during 2 truths and a lie I found out the boys apparently think girls cannot be drummers (my lie... but ohhh, such a dream) or soccer players (a truth). Well, come next class I'll just have to prove them wrong!!!
Simple but perfection.
We're Going to be Friends by The White Stripes
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IZGHTkmhxgQ
I'm sure I'm forgetting things I want to share, so if you have any questions about experiences, please ask!!!
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Monday, August 30, 2010
Here It Is!
Short video of the apartment.
Also, if you need my address for any reason, facebook message me and I can get it to you! :)
Also, if you need my address for any reason, facebook message me and I can get it to you! :)
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Mr. Curiosity
Below are some quick photos I took when I arrived Saturday. Yes, that IS Bubble Spinner on the computer. I HAD to do something to keep me entertained until my apartment was ready. Hope to put up some photos to add color to the walls. I begin tomorrow. Cannot wait!!!! Nervous, but that's expected.
Today I settled more into my apartment moving things around. I thought the random plush chair in the kitchen area wouldn't fit through my door frame to place it in my room, but after much maneuvering it's now sitting in a less awkward place. haha Perhaps tomorrow morning I'll post a video for the grand tour!!
A wonderful song for all you curious ones. :)
Mr. Curiosity by Jason Mraz
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EtBwBcvrn1A
Today I settled more into my apartment moving things around. I thought the random plush chair in the kitchen area wouldn't fit through my door frame to place it in my room, but after much maneuvering it's now sitting in a less awkward place. haha Perhaps tomorrow morning I'll post a video for the grand tour!!
A wonderful song for all you curious ones. :)
Mr. Curiosity by Jason Mraz
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EtBwBcvrn1A
Friday, August 27, 2010
Golden Train
Whatcya gonna do on a Friday night? A time for the past 4 nights that were spent studying, memorizing and practicing? Whyyyy ride the sub to the giant mall called the CoEx. And what do you do there? Eat at Jackie Chan's restaurant. Yes. He has a restaurant. Who knew. What else? Go to the bookstore in hopes of finding the newly released third book from the Hunger Games series. And? Be approached by a young Korean pair asking to converse in English for their homework assignment. Fantastic! We talked about the TV shows they watched to learn English (Friends, Desperate Housewives, dramas). How big of a star Wentworth Miller from Prison Break is, which I found shocking but oh so wonderful. Even more interesting, they asked how we felt about the turmoil between North and South Korea. People at home seem more concerned than those here in Seoul. They said most people hope they can reunite and the threat doesn't seem nearly as big of a deal here.
Last part of the homework assignment? Get photos! So we thought we'd do it too. :)
Golden Train by Justin Nozuka
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M2IoMOQkBx4
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Imagine (First Impressions)
Hello, all! My week of training is coming to an end much sooner than I expected. I prepared for a tedious, long week, but as Friday ends it hasn't nearly been as terrible as the initial orientation perhaps wanted the trainees to believe.
My first fears were that I'd be unable to pass Training since they do say it is very overwhelming with all of the information they throw at you in a short amount of time, as well as the amount of outside-class prepartion you need to do. While I have had less sleep than I'd like this week, and there has been a lot of information to comprehend and review, mock teaching and overall training has actually been quite enjoyable. I've realized that cohort certainly prepares you for much more than a United States classroom. Many of the ideas the company highlights and stresses is not far from some of the pedagogies studied at GCSU. Referring back to mock teaching, I'm fortunate to have had student teaching experience to help build off my teaching style and delivery of information.
Although you are expected to follow a set methodology, they do encourage personal style in the way that you teach it, and perhaps most importantly, student rapport. It has become evident to me through the discussions with my trainers that students in all countries experience the same feelings, behaviors, and expectations in class. You're going to have that "class clown" or "disruptive" student, while another might prefer to simply sit and listen along with the discussion without vocally participating. Students in the US and Korea want to feel as though their opinion matters. They want to feel as though their efforts are for a reason. And going along with student rapport, they want to feel loved, encouraged, and important.
In the few moments that I have been out of the training center, I've enjoyed observing Korean culture. I've mentioned this to a few friends, but I was first struck by the fashion. You always hear how trendy the Asian countries are, but I didn't know what to expect. Trendy might've been ridiculous modern style with loud colors, high-fashion hair styles, and so on. Instead, I see people of all ages, although most often between 15 - 35, with styles that you might see at Urban Outfitters, Mod Cloth, or at your local coffee shop in Milledgeville. Maybe even Jonas Brothers-style, though not nearly as tight of pants. The women are far braver than me to wear heels for any occasion -- dinner, walking downtown, riding the subway... The men are especially well put together. Nicely ironed shirts (bonus points from me if their sleeves are rolled 3/4 length), slightly tight pants (mostly the younger guys), and Italian-leather looking work shoes. The younger generation has the most wonderful hats. Fedoras. Knit caps. Braves hats.
Some tips I've picked up through observation and trial-and-error:
1) Always bring an umbrella. It's almost a staple of fashion. Perhaps this will only be a factor during certain seasons, but umbrellas are vital. They shield the sun (very few tans). They protect you from sun... or clouds.
2) Pack more than one pair of shoes. Although the women can handle walking everywhere in heels or flats with little sole support, I cannot. The subway is like a race in and of itself, so Vans are the way to go.
3) The (best?) way to find Korean restaurants is to a) follow the lights. Look for bright signs that catch your attention. Maybe one of them is leading you to a restaurant. b) Look for pictures with food that looks possibly appetizing... mainly so that you can point to it. c) Be willing to try something new. I'm learning to step out of my food comfort zone, and since food is cheap, it might be worth the risk.
4) While not a tip, I've noticed that very few people wear wedding rings. I don't know if this is just to avoid losing it on the subway, I've just happened to notice a lot of single people, or maybe it's not customary to wear wedding rings. I'm gonna have to Google it and find out...
5) Smile. Smiling and bowing gets you a long way if you can't speak the language. There are other ways to try to communicate until you do learn.
Tomorrow concludes training. I check-out of my hotel Saturday and will be transported to my campus to meet the director, and then my apartment! Teaching begins Monday.
In honor of a music festival going on this weekend in Gwangju, which hopefully I can check out, here's a song by The Beatles but covered by A Perfect Circle. This song's video is actually rather interesting considering the turmoil between the Koreas. Warning: Somewhat graphic due to war theme.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dunKAwRN3P8&ob=av2e
My first fears were that I'd be unable to pass Training since they do say it is very overwhelming with all of the information they throw at you in a short amount of time, as well as the amount of outside-class prepartion you need to do. While I have had less sleep than I'd like this week, and there has been a lot of information to comprehend and review, mock teaching and overall training has actually been quite enjoyable. I've realized that cohort certainly prepares you for much more than a United States classroom. Many of the ideas the company highlights and stresses is not far from some of the pedagogies studied at GCSU. Referring back to mock teaching, I'm fortunate to have had student teaching experience to help build off my teaching style and delivery of information.
Although you are expected to follow a set methodology, they do encourage personal style in the way that you teach it, and perhaps most importantly, student rapport. It has become evident to me through the discussions with my trainers that students in all countries experience the same feelings, behaviors, and expectations in class. You're going to have that "class clown" or "disruptive" student, while another might prefer to simply sit and listen along with the discussion without vocally participating. Students in the US and Korea want to feel as though their opinion matters. They want to feel as though their efforts are for a reason. And going along with student rapport, they want to feel loved, encouraged, and important.
In the few moments that I have been out of the training center, I've enjoyed observing Korean culture. I've mentioned this to a few friends, but I was first struck by the fashion. You always hear how trendy the Asian countries are, but I didn't know what to expect. Trendy might've been ridiculous modern style with loud colors, high-fashion hair styles, and so on. Instead, I see people of all ages, although most often between 15 - 35, with styles that you might see at Urban Outfitters, Mod Cloth, or at your local coffee shop in Milledgeville. Maybe even Jonas Brothers-style, though not nearly as tight of pants. The women are far braver than me to wear heels for any occasion -- dinner, walking downtown, riding the subway... The men are especially well put together. Nicely ironed shirts (bonus points from me if their sleeves are rolled 3/4 length), slightly tight pants (mostly the younger guys), and Italian-leather looking work shoes. The younger generation has the most wonderful hats. Fedoras. Knit caps. Braves hats.
Some tips I've picked up through observation and trial-and-error:
1) Always bring an umbrella. It's almost a staple of fashion. Perhaps this will only be a factor during certain seasons, but umbrellas are vital. They shield the sun (very few tans). They protect you from sun... or clouds.
2) Pack more than one pair of shoes. Although the women can handle walking everywhere in heels or flats with little sole support, I cannot. The subway is like a race in and of itself, so Vans are the way to go.
3) The (best?) way to find Korean restaurants is to a) follow the lights. Look for bright signs that catch your attention. Maybe one of them is leading you to a restaurant. b) Look for pictures with food that looks possibly appetizing... mainly so that you can point to it. c) Be willing to try something new. I'm learning to step out of my food comfort zone, and since food is cheap, it might be worth the risk.
4) While not a tip, I've noticed that very few people wear wedding rings. I don't know if this is just to avoid losing it on the subway, I've just happened to notice a lot of single people, or maybe it's not customary to wear wedding rings. I'm gonna have to Google it and find out...
5) Smile. Smiling and bowing gets you a long way if you can't speak the language. There are other ways to try to communicate until you do learn.
Tomorrow concludes training. I check-out of my hotel Saturday and will be transported to my campus to meet the director, and then my apartment! Teaching begins Monday.
In honor of a music festival going on this weekend in Gwangju, which hopefully I can check out, here's a song by The Beatles but covered by A Perfect Circle. This song's video is actually rather interesting considering the turmoil between the Koreas. Warning: Somewhat graphic due to war theme.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dunKAwRN3P8&ob=av2e
Monday, August 23, 2010
Photos of the Day
Books found at the bookstore. Notice that Twilight's covers are unique.
Seoul Medical Center where I had my blood drawn, x-rays & drug test. Whoo.
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Across the Universe
Goooood afternoon from Seoul :) Although I suppose for most you're asleep... or should be. Ha
Plane ride went smoothly, other than having to change seats because the much needed TV in the seat in front of me stopped working midflight. Once we landed, I, along with some other ChungDahm trainees, took a bus to the City Air Terminal where the van hired by the company took us to our hotels.
Once we checked in and dropped off our luggage, the girl I met at the consulate and I walked around and went to the convenience store to buy some breakfast foods and water.
Slept until 10am-ish. Internet surfed. Then went grocery shopping with my roommate. Really interesting! First, it was a matter of figuring out prices to make sure we didn't pay ridiculous prices. Fruit is expensive, but I found some good-looking apples (haha!) that weren't too much. Second, it was trying to figure out what the photos of products were. It's definitely going to be an experience adjusting to and learning to cook the food. My mom will appreciate that... ;)
Until I learn more about Korean music, enjoy this cover of Across the Universe by Rufus Wainwright.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cAe1lVDbLf0
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Another Week Goes By...
Hard to believe another week has come and gone. Not much has improved on the home front in terms of cleaning and organizing all of the things I brought home from college. Yes, yes. I've been home for two (or three) weeks... at least the floors are fairly walk-throughable now (family might beg to differ). Thursday is the day to cram all that I could possibly (hopefully?) need for a year in 2 checked suitcases and one carry-on, plus a backpack that shall hold the essentials -- laptop, a book or 2, pillow?, and toothbrush & paste. Maybe some face wash & make-up too since it will be a very, very long flight.
As you can see, sleep evades me. Pretty sure I haven't gone to bed at a decent time (aka before midnight) since I returned from Indiana a week and a half ago. I've had the same problem when I was in school, but more so nightmares about school. Example: before high school started I dreamt I couldn't go unless I returned all of my graded papers from 6th-8th grade, which of course was an impossible task. Terrifying dream.
Basically the nerves turn me into an insomniac. Quite pleasant. I just need to be more trusting in my faith and realize God has a plan. Nerves are normal. Something great is going to happen this year.
Note: I will be staying at this hotel until next Fridayish during training -- looks niceeee!
http://www.provista.co.kr/html/eng/fl/fl_010.asp
Be on the look out for some photos and/or video in the near future... And since my eyes are drooping too much to find a song I love (although Coldplay's Lovers in Japan just came to mind for semi-obvious reasons), anyone have suggestions?? Gotta use my iTunes giftcard. :) :)
As you can see, sleep evades me. Pretty sure I haven't gone to bed at a decent time (aka before midnight) since I returned from Indiana a week and a half ago. I've had the same problem when I was in school, but more so nightmares about school. Example: before high school started I dreamt I couldn't go unless I returned all of my graded papers from 6th-8th grade, which of course was an impossible task. Terrifying dream.
Basically the nerves turn me into an insomniac. Quite pleasant. I just need to be more trusting in my faith and realize God has a plan. Nerves are normal. Something great is going to happen this year.
Note: I will be staying at this hotel until next Fridayish during training -- looks niceeee!
http://www.provista.co.kr/html/eng/fl/fl_010.asp
Be on the look out for some photos and/or video in the near future... And since my eyes are drooping too much to find a song I love (although Coldplay's Lovers in Japan just came to mind for semi-obvious reasons), anyone have suggestions?? Gotta use my iTunes giftcard. :) :)
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Free Bird
Today was the day! AKA the day of my visa interview. I wasn't sure what to expect, but knew it must not be too bad if I already had a job and everything else was pretty much set. And I was right. I rode MARTA downtown, and sat for an hour (Thanks Lauren for telling me to leave at 12:30!!! :P) before the interview began at 3:00 pm.
Now, I won't say it was a waste of time... but really it was. I felt bad for my fellow group members of 6 who all came from other states (Florida, North Carolina & South Carolina) for a 30 minute interview. An interview which consisted of the guy looking at our papers and maybe asking a question here or there. The longest conversation I had with the guy was how to say my last name. hahaha Surprise, surprise!!
But on the plus side, I shall have my visa in hand after 11 am tomorrow when I return to the office to pick it up. Much easier and cheaper than to wait for it in the mail.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=np0solnL1X
Free Bird by Lynyrd Skynyrd
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Changes in Latitude Changes in Attitude
Thanks to Erica for providing this title via song. :)
As I'm gearing up for this trip many people have asked how I'm feeling about it all. For those who know me well, and maybe only kinda know me, you know how chill and go-with-the-flow type person I am. Sometimes I wonder if that's a good thing or bad thing. Mixed emotions is the answer. Excited. Scared. Nervous about the job. Curious. Disbelief.
Although I probably won't feel fully at ease until I'm there and somewhat adjusted, I received some great advice from a totally random person. He was actually trying to sell me stuff through The Arrival Store, a company that will have essential items (pillows / bedsheets, cell phone & plan, outlet converters) ready for me when I arrive to use at my apartment. But I ended up talking to this Scott fella for about 15 minutes about his time there, cell phones, and expectations. He offered this piece of advice: take the time to get to know some about the area, but arrive with eagerness to explore and just go with the flow. The best experiences I'll have are if my expectations are not set too high. I think I can manage that. Even if some expectations are not met, it'll be an experience no matter what.
I guess we'll find out if any of my attitudes change!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=56nHBah7mdE
Changes in Latitude Changes in Attitude by Jimmy Buffet
As I'm gearing up for this trip many people have asked how I'm feeling about it all. For those who know me well, and maybe only kinda know me, you know how chill and go-with-the-flow type person I am. Sometimes I wonder if that's a good thing or bad thing. Mixed emotions is the answer. Excited. Scared. Nervous about the job. Curious. Disbelief.
Although I probably won't feel fully at ease until I'm there and somewhat adjusted, I received some great advice from a totally random person. He was actually trying to sell me stuff through The Arrival Store, a company that will have essential items (pillows / bedsheets, cell phone & plan, outlet converters) ready for me when I arrive to use at my apartment. But I ended up talking to this Scott fella for about 15 minutes about his time there, cell phones, and expectations. He offered this piece of advice: take the time to get to know some about the area, but arrive with eagerness to explore and just go with the flow. The best experiences I'll have are if my expectations are not set too high. I think I can manage that. Even if some expectations are not met, it'll be an experience no matter what.
I guess we'll find out if any of my attitudes change!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=56nHBah7mdE
Changes in Latitude Changes in Attitude by Jimmy Buffet
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
The Countdown Begins...
The blog is finally here. I've been talking about it all summer, but finally got around to making it. Don't expect too many exciting posts at the moment.
My visa interview is scheduled for August 11. Never knew you had to interview for visas, but I guess since I want to work over there they gotta make sure I'm legit and have good intentions. Now just need to find a way to get my resume off my old laptop to bring with me (it's one of the required documents).
Until next time, enjoy this song by Never Shout Never.
listen. replay. love.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-zm6i-C0p1Y
My visa interview is scheduled for August 11. Never knew you had to interview for visas, but I guess since I want to work over there they gotta make sure I'm legit and have good intentions. Now just need to find a way to get my resume off my old laptop to bring with me (it's one of the required documents).
Until next time, enjoy this song by Never Shout Never.
listen. replay. love.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-zm6i-C0p1Y
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