English Class

Without knowing what to expect, I prepared a lesson for our first English class.

Would the children be well-behaved? Would they all be at the same level in their English language ability, or would some be more advanced than others? Could they comprehend a simple story, or should I start out more basic than that?  I figured that our first class would be a trial run and useful to get an idea of everyone’s level. This was true. I also figured it would just be a plain old TRIAL, and in this I was greatly mistaken.

The six kids who attended already had English names. They were well-behaved and eager to participate in all of the activities, even the ones that were too challenging for some, too easy for others. Some were able to answer my questions and comprehend the story, while the activities aimed at teaching more basic letter sounds and vocabulary were just right for the beginners. We finished early, and at the last minute thought of some outdoor games which got everyone interacting and laughing with each other.

As you will see from the photos below, we had great parent involvement. Many of the parents are there to learn, too, and we have opportunity to practice our Chinese with them.

It was with great thankfulness in our hearts that we cycled home from our first class. We look forward to going back this Saturday.

Jennifer (with Grace and Joy in the background)

A game to teach "over" and "under."
(Bill, Tiger, Lydia and Rose)

Lesson time.

Tiger.

Red Rover, Red Rover, send Bill right over!

Ian breaks through the line.