This week was consumed with the usual language lessons, but my time spent practice teaching was replaced by planning an English Camp for one of the local schools. On Monday I had no idea what an English Camp consisted of, and today (Friday) I have successfully contributed to putting one on. Essentially the teaching volunteers in my unit came together to prepare a one day opportunity to learn and speak English. The day began with a short opening ceremony, large group songs, activities, and dancing. It doesn’t take long to realize that Thai students are driven by five things: singing songs, dancing, playing games, drawing, and stickers. After the volunteers got the students all wound up and ready for a day of language acquisition, they were divided into six groups; each group was lead to a classroom where two Peace Corps Trainees were eagerly awaiting them. 
We had each group of students for 45 minutes – in that time we had a specific set of words, concepts, or skills we were required to teach. My partner and I taught about the various modes of transportation. We began by showing them flashcards with pictures of the words; they would repeat the word several times and then we added actions to the words – so they ran around the classroom acting like cars, trains, planes, and bikes. It was adorable, hot, and a lot of work. This took place for three hours and then there was a much needed lunch break. After lunch we went for three more rounds and ended in the large group, singing songs and dancing again. This was a one day camp, which was held during the school day, so we were limited in terms of time and preparation; however, we are expected to participate and facilitate such activities when we are at site and they generally are overnight experiences with themes and a great deal of focus. It is a lot to learn in one day, but they seem to really enjoy the time they spend learning. It doesn’t matter what you have them do – as long as there is some sort of singing and dancing involved, Thai students consider the day a success.
We had each group of students for 45 minutes – in that time we had a specific set of words, concepts, or skills we were required to teach. My partner and I taught about the various modes of transportation. We began by showing them flashcards with pictures of the words; they would repeat the word several times and then we added actions to the words – so they ran around the classroom acting like cars, trains, planes, and bikes. It was adorable, hot, and a lot of work. This took place for three hours and then there was a much needed lunch break. After lunch we went for three more rounds and ended in the large group, singing songs and dancing again. This was a one day camp, which was held during the school day, so we were limited in terms of time and preparation; however, we are expected to participate and facilitate such activities when we are at site and they generally are overnight experiences with themes and a great deal of focus. It is a lot to learn in one day, but they seem to really enjoy the time they spend learning. It doesn’t matter what you have them do – as long as there is some sort of singing and dancing involved, Thai students consider the day a success.
Wow, what a busy day. It sounds like so much fun. It reminds me a lot of what Andrew and Lizzie are doing in preschool to understand the English language. How are you doing? Are you coming home for Friday? What is your address?
ReplyDeleteHey Tina,
ReplyDeleteI couldn't make it home because that was the day I visited my site for the first time. Plus I knew if i went back i would stay. I am really homesick right now. I miss you guys. My mom and dad have the address, i would send it your way but i don't have it with me and it's really long. Thanks for the response, it is nice to read the words of a familiar soul.