This afternoon Debbie, Don and I had a special lesson for the English teachers. We talked about the maple trees, the leaf on our flag and then explained how to tap trees and make maple syrup. We had the teachers taste maple syrup by dipping bread into it. Most thought it was far too sweet. Many were surprised that we could get that sweet taste from trees. Some were worried that it was not really edible. It made for interesting conversation for the rest of the time in class!
Although we are experiencing some difficulty with computer compatibility, we are finding different ways to do what we had planned. Don had a wonderful lesson today to help the teachers with the problematic “th” sound. To say “th” the students were to achieve the sound by touching a sucker with their tongue. It made a difficult drill fun for all. Debbie has the classes working on poems and stories. I am leading discussions about teaching and learning English. It is fun thinking of new games and activities to begin the classes, so that we begin on a positive note.
There has been little rain yesterday or today, but the clouds remain, so although it is hot, it is not unbearably hot–yet. The streets are drying and our shoes are drying too. Mosquitoes are beginning to be a nuisance, regardless of the precautions we take. We really appreciate that we have air conditioners in the hotel, that work when we are in our rooms. But we go with fans and open windows in the classrooms.
It is nice to begin to be able to call students by name. We have observed that most are more confident with their English after just a couple of days,which speaks to their dedication and willingness to take risks. We are encouraged and continue to work hard to plan lessons that will continue the progress.
Jan Hazlett, July 14, 2010
Can’t say I blame them – I think maple syrup’s awfully sweet too, and I was raised with it!
Many thanks for the updates, Jan. I’ve requested the youth group keep you in their prayers.
Nǐhǎo [you good],
It’s interesting how something that we take for granted – maple syrup – would elicit so many different reactions! However, I’m sure many of those same thoughts would be going through my head when presented with some Chinese foods!
It sounds like Debbie, Don and you make a good team and are coming up with some creative ways to teach. What a joy it must be to work with enthusiastic students. Your time away seems to be going so quickly.
It’s been more than a “little” rainy here. Of course, this is Stampede week so thunderstorms are the norm and a hail storm hit the grounds and downtown area on Monday causing a lot of damage. It rained all day yesterday and with the rain came colder temperatures. The outside temps were hovering around 8 and the inside of our house had cooled down to 16 when I finally gave in and turned on the furnace. Today is partially sunny but still chilly.
Thank you for being so faithful in posting on your blog. You are in my prayers and I know that God will pour out his blessings upon you and your work in Dangtu.
~Judie