I finally started teaching yesterday. I taught Preschool, Kindergarten and Grade 2. It did not go well. My teaching time with the preschoolers is 10 minutes so that is not much time to accomplish anything. Most of them do not understand English so I basically just read them a book. However, it does not feel very rewarding as all I do is read a book or do a finger play. There is no discussion. I guess I am just so used to the American kids with their millions of questions. Oh well, I am sure I will get used to this too. The Kindergarteners do speak English and understood a lot of what I was saying but, I did not prepare enough to do. The 2nd graders were way more advanced than I thought they would be so, again, I did not prepare enough. Ugh! It is so frustrating not knowing the kids and what they can do! Oh, and then they totally changed my schedule around but didn't tell me. I found out when I showed up to a class and they said I was supposed to be there 2 hours ago. So, now I also have a few conflicts in my teaching schedule. As always, I wish I could clone myself so I could be in 2 places at the same time. Oh wait, make that about 10 different places at the same time.
Well, today went MUCH better! I prepared properly for the 2nd graders. I was able to find some "teaching" books (you know the kind you buy for your kids for a long road trip or to practice over the summer). But, at least they helped me know what I should be teaching. Today I also taught Kindergarten and Grade 1. By the end of yesterday I was ready to quit, pack it all up and go home. But, I prepared last night and now feel a little better about my abilities to do this job. I said, a little better...I'm still not sure I can do this but, at least I am going to try.
Today I also discovered the computer lab at school! It is empty most of the time. I am so excited about this! Now I feel like I have my own work station. The teachers lounge is always full of teachers and it is hard to buckle down and get any work done. This is also a place where I can Skype or do video calls! Yea!
Love and miss you!
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
I love following your adventures in Indonesia. The first few days at any job are rough as you get to know your students, administration's expectations, and your curriculum. I'm thinking and praying for you! If you ever have any teacher questions, let me know! I know that I'm secondary education, but some things work for every student, in spite of his or her age. Hang in there! Every day WILL get better and easier!
ReplyDelete