Proud of My Work

Before I ever left for Korea I was working at an Insurance Company in San Francisco. My boss was this kooky old Japanese man who lived by a lot of morals and codes. Have you ever watched Mad Men? The office was kind of like that, and even had old type writers.

While he was training me to be an Insurance Agent he would now and then pass on knowledge. This one time he told me that when you do a job you should do it right. You should do such hard work that when it comes time for you to leave (for whatever reason) the company should be sorry to see you go. At that time I was fresh out of college and with a small work history behind me. I tried my best at that job, but know I could have left it better.

His wise words have carried with me in Korea. As you know I struggled at the first few jobs I had here, then I started to get momentum and understood what hard work means. It doesn't just mean showing up on time, doing paperwork and being there. It means going beyond the call of duty and probably working more than you should.

At the job I'm leaving now I know I am leaving behind hard work. My colleagues and supervisors might not be exactly telling me, "We wish you could stay" but I know I've left my mark. Although the Vice Principal did say she was sad to see me go.

However, I'm proud of my work at this job because of what I experienced today. I was organizing my desk and getting things ready for the new teacher. Throughout the year I kept binders of my work so to keep a record and just in case things came to this. I looked through my two full binders of "worksheets" and realized what great work it was. I made 90% of the worksheets by scratch. The binder of "lesson plans" weren't just short pages with an outline of what to do, but detailed and lengthy. In the storage spaces along the walls were spread out five large plastic bins full of materials, I also made from scratch. In addition, I bought blocks, cards and other hands-on stuff for the students. I'm leaving this all behind for the new teacher, and hope they use it.

When I walked into this school to teach 1st Grade math I was left with scant supplies and lesson plans. I started from scratch and built up a curriculum that I think is effective. However, I know that there is room for tweaking, but that's for the new teacher to deal with.

Leaving a job feeling satisfied and proud is a really good feeling. In the end, I don't really need a supervisor to tell me "good job" because I saw the results in my students and work. If you are an English teacher here in Korea I would encourage you to put in more than you have been. You might think it's not worth it because of the salary and quality of your institution, but it will develop yourself so much.

Anyway, that's my thoughts on this last Monday at work! (Official last day is next Thursday...next Monday is a holiday).

Goodbye desk~

Goodbye chalkboard ~

A Day of Professional Development: KOTESOL International Conference 2012

On October 20th and 21st Sookmyung Women's University held the 20th KOTESOL International Conference. During this time teacher's and ESOL enthusiasts gathered to see presentations ranging from topics such as mobile language learning to gaining more participation from students. Yet most importantly it felt like a time to celebrate the profession of teaching English as a second or foreign language.

I for one enjoyed the presentations I attended and especially found the conference well organized and entertaining.

The opening ceremony (seen above) showcased key speakers and introductory speeches by the University's President and other figures.

A hot topic in the ESOL profession must be how new technology can be used by the teacher and students. Certainly the plenary presentation touched on this in their "Mobile Language Learning: Turning Challenges into Opportunities" by Mike Levy and Glenn Stockwell. Although, I am somewhat conflicted on being told how mobile devices can be used for education because I think for most of us this comes naturally. I would have liked instead to see actual lessons presented where the use of these devices pan out. Instead of a hodgepodge of how it all could work.

Yet the presentations I attended offered more focus on subject areas, which I was keen to gain more knowledge on.

The first presentation I went to was in the morning and was called, "Reading Fluency: Rationale, Measurements, and Interventions" by Elton LaClare. I found his presentation simple and to the point with no real fancy flare to it. Yet that was good as the subject he talked about is important to think about when teaching. How do we assess our students reading skills in a way that will be accurate but also useful to the student? He showed several ways one can do this and web tools that can help. Overall, a good presentation.

After lunch I stepped into the presentation, "The M & M's of Teaching English to Young Learner: Using Music, Movement, and Multiple Intelligence" by Kathleen Kampa. Now I should have known before heading in that this would feel more like an ad campaign for Oxford books, but it didn't hit me till later on.

Her presentation was very lively, useful and on point with getting kids up and moving in class. Certainly I agree that young learners need movement, music and lots of action to help them learn English. I would say I teach young learners but I feel there is a distinct difference between a 9 year old vs. a 6 year old. For one I couldn't really get my sometimes bitter students to get up and sing and clap. But don't get me wrong I do find physical ways to get them involved.

Kathleen's presentation was to show us how these interactive attributes can be executed in the classroom. However, I think she had everyone doing the exercises a little too much. I would have rather liked to hear more about the effectiveness of these devices, then swinging my arms around and touching my toes. It also made me feel like a horrible teacher for not teaching my kids this way. And I really wanted to ask her, "Do you think someone could teach in this style for 8 hours a day?" It reminded me of my hagwon days, and how they (parents and supervisors) expect you to be this active, cheerful person for every class, and the unrealistic nature this creates.

So I didn't quite swing my arms enthusiastically or shout out "triangle" as loudly as other folks. But if I am ever to be a room with 6 year olds again, I'll know what to do. Just turn every task into a chant, smile and swing my arms a lot.

Thankfully the next presentation I went to hit the nail on the head for what I was looking for. Jackie Bolen of the blog, "My Life! Teaching in a Korean University" gave an excellent presentation called, "Teaching: the Small Stuff that Actually Matters".

She outlined 10 useful items that teacher's can use to focus on when developing their career in the classroom. Although this presentation was set for University teacher's her general point can be transferred to other levels. I particularly agreed with her point, "Don't hide" as I for one think it is best to be out and about in your classroom. Not sitting or standing behind your desk, but up and around the room. Sure teacher's need to take a rest at some point, and this could be done during work time. But generally one should show they are in command of their classroom and let students know they are there to be involved with them.

After taking part in presentations one could wander through the hallways checking out materials and booths with sponsors of the program. However, this became quite dizzying and it kind of made me late to a few presentations.

Outside there were tents up with coffee and snacks for lunch. I enjoyed a pastrami sandwich from Suji's.

If you are interested in developing yourself further as a teacher, or would like to start understanding this profession more, than I highly recommend attending these functions. You can start by joining the KOTESOL organization, which will later give you discounted entry into these events. If anything attending workshops or conferences is a great way to network and meet other people interested in going beyond griping, to talking about how to improve the results in their students. For one of the key speakers said it best, "...we are here because we aren't just satisfied that our students are quiet and parents have stopped complaining ...", we are here to go beyond what is asked of us. 

First Time Teacher's in Korea: Some helpful points

Last weekend I randomly met up with a newcomer to Korea. He has been here about half a year and teaching down in Jinhae, which is near Busan. During our visit he expressed to me some difficulties getting use to teaching in Korea. Certainly some of the points he made were exactly how I felt when I first started teaching, and I couldn't help but see how far I have come. Recently he posted this on his Facebook:

"I'm not sure if I'm making any positive impact on my students...I wish I knew how to be a good teacher, but also a better human being. I don't think there's a book out there that teaches you both. I sense many students don't want to be here learning English. By the time they get to my class, they are too tired and don't want to learn. They have no idea how good they have it here. Not until the

y face some hardship. ... Sometimes I think I would be better off being in a place where underpriviledged children would really want to be educated. Sometimes being in a modern society can dehumanize anything worth humanizing. It's hard to be in a classroom when no one really wants to be there and learn. I don't care what culture I'm in, I don't tolerate disrespect from anyone. I'm a teacher, not a circus clown either. I do have some integrity for my profession."

*As you read keep in mind that I'm not an expert on all this, just someone with five years experience and also keen to observation. ;)

Main difficulties:

I. Feeling like a Clown:

I think for most new teacher's in Korea one of the very first things you notice in your classroom is that the students will not treat you like a true teacher. Depending on your school, this would apply to most classes where the age is under middle school (and possible high school). Students here, for the most part, see the foreign teacher as someone to play with and not treat the same as a Korean teacher. Unless you have experienced it already, the students will straighten up and put their heads down if a Korean person walks into the room, which often times leaves you feeling pointless. In this case you end up feeling like a clown or entertainer, and not a teacher. (However, after you build up your management style the students will end up respecting you...as you will see down further)

II. Lack of respect from students:

You walk into your classroom, or the students come in and the bell rings. They are mostly speaking Korean, not sitting nicely and not really "ready" for class. You say, "Sit down, be quiet, let's get ready!" And a few do, but most do not. Throughout the class kids continue to talk or act up when told to straighten out. Generally you feel not respected as a teacher in front of your students.

III. No training

Depending on your school and program you might receive a few days of training and observation before actually starting. But typically you don't experience this when you first teach in Korea. If you are part of the EPIK, GEPIK....etc entourage then you will end up going to orientation a few times. However, in my experience those events don't really prepare you for what realistically happens. All in all, training someone costs money and schools and governments will not go out of their way to shell out quality training. They hired you mostly for your background and native-speaking abilities. Not really on your accounts of teaching abilities. However, these days they are hiring "qualified" folks for the job. Even still, I think the general lack of training is a main complaint from new teacher's here, whatever your background may be.

Solutions, tips and ideas:
Now that I have brought up some main points about the top difficulties of first teaching in Korea, I would like to express ways to get use to it and improve yourself. Again I'm no expert, but would like to reassure you this job is possible.

I. Let go!

For one let go of taking your position here so seriously. Yes you are an important person and your an adult and should be treated like one. But the more you fight to be recognized as such and in a serious frustrated manner, the less your going to win. I hate to say this but you should delve into being the "clown". You don't have to end up acting like a fool or berating yourself in front of your students but finding your humorous and silly side will help.

The people who should really take you seriously at your school are the one's in managerial positions, like your hagwon boss or school Principal. When you are in the classroom let the seriousness go and try to find ways to make it a fun experience for the students. I'm telling you as soon as you start going with the flow you will end up getting their respect.

II. Constructing your "teacher self"

If you have come to Korea with little or no experience teaching, or no experience around children then of course you aren't going to get this right the first few months. Teaching in South Korea (especially with the younger crowd) is mostly about classroom management. In between the "Sit down!" "Everybody look, look at me!" you will be doing some actual teaching. I would say for your first few months research and figure out your style of classroom management. There are several well known techniques such as sticker charts (or stamps), stars next to names on the board, or group competition.

You can use sites like waygook.org to find great resources on management that works for teacher's in South Korea.

After you have down some kind of management system you can start to sense who you are as a teacher. For one your tone of voice should change in the classroom, in pitch but also in how you pace what you say. These kids are learning English as a Foreign Language after all, and you will need to accommodate to their listening levels.

Next see what you can do to make your lessons fun and enjoyable to both you and the students. If you are teaching from a set curriculum and have all the materials and books, then find ways to turn things into games and activities. Don't just have them read all at once together, try something called "popcorn" reading where they take turns.

There are an amazing amount of ways to make the classroom fun, but depends on you and the energy you have to bring to your classes. I for one couldn't keep up what I do for 8 straight classes, which is why I don't teach at a hagwon. But all in all, you need to embrace your teacher self and see what works and doesn't.

III. Network and get inspired

I agree that schools should do a better job of training, but also constructive oversight throughout the year. When a boss says, "One student dropped from your class. I might have to fire you" is something I don't think will motivate teacher's to do better.

I've come to realize that as expats we need to train each other. That is why I'm a part of the KOTESOL organization to get tips and feedback from other experienced teacher's. Even though most of the people in this group are University teacher's I think their advice can go a long way.

Also I use waygook.org to get tips and ideas that have been quite useful. Generally though talk to other teacher's but don't just gripe about your situation. Get ideas and talk about what works and doesn't. We are a great resource to each other.

Lastly:

I know not every new person here has issues with their teaching job, and jump into the classroom all giddy and ready for action. But for the most part figuring out ways to get the students participating and having a good time should be something we all strive for. I hope some of these tips I expunged will help you see that you are a valuable person here and can really do so much besides just sitting at your desk and delegating tasks to students. Get up! Have fun with your students, cause they have a lot to give in return.

Detachment: I highly recommend it

source

When someone asks me, "What kind of movies do you like?" I have a hard time answering. I usually start off by saying I don't care for the Hollywood flicks, and then go from there. For the most part Korea gets only just the Hollywood "Blockbuster" movies from the West. While the more thoughtful and dramatic ones don't cross the ocean.

To get my movie kicks I first see what's up for grabs in iTunes and then take a pick. I recently decided to give the movie "Detachment" a try after feeling compelled by the trailer.

I did think that it would be another "teacher movie", where a good guy type teacher comes to a bad school and fixes everything up just right. But, boy was I wrong. For one the movie starts off like a documentary with profiles of several teachers spilling out why they became teachers. Turns out they became teachers because that basically was all they had to do. Even though I haven't been a real teacher back home, I know from other people's tales and what I read that it's a tough and thankless job.

For sure we all have heard about the teacher's troubles and the rotting education system in America. But even though this movie touches on the hardships of teachers and the education system, it mostly focuses on the human condition. 

I don't want to talk too much and end up causing you to not watch the film, because I truly feel this one is worth the time. 

The memorable parts for me are when the red-head actress, who is one of the teachers at the school, says something like, "When Friday comes I don't want to go home. What will I do without all those students in my classroom?" Something like that! Anyway, I feel the same way. I get so energized and alive in the classroom that when I'm out of it I feel like I'm missing something. 

Another dialog in the movie I enjoyed was how the main character was talking about how teachers don't really care. Like they are just floating from one period to the next. It made me think of our teaching job's out here, when at times it feels like your just trying to fill the space till the next class. However, I definitely feel I try my best to give each class the attention they need, all be it a very tiring task. 

Anyway, it's a "thinker" type movie and one that is quite on edge, so give yourself the brain space to watch it. If you have seen this movie I would love to get your feedback about the social issues raised and also any other thoughts.

Bonus: I also enjoyed the soundtrack to this movie. During one scene this song "Empty" by Ray LaMontagne came on. Now I'm a fan!

How to work and teach with tonsillitis

I'm actually doing much better now with all my symptoms practically gone. But it took some time and I didn't get off work that much when I was feeling like crap. Instead I trucked through my class loads and stuck it out. Working when sick in Korea is a given and you pretty much have to do it or you will look like a sorry person to your Korean colleagues. Here for you is how I got through teaching with tonsillitis and generally feeling horrible.

For one I learned that you need to pair down your lessons so that they are easy to get through and give the students stuff to do. When I came in and felt my worst I had a craft waiting to be made and so handed it to them early. I explained to my classes I wasn't feeling well and that if they worked hard and helped me out I would reward them with candy. Sure, bribing isn't the best way but in some situations it's handy. Thankfully the adjacent Korean homeroom teachers came in and told the kids to be good to me. That helped a lot!

When I took the day off I think that helped show the students I really was sick, because the next day they looked concerned. At this point I decided not to speak to my classes and keep my voice at rest. How was I to get through my lessons without speaking to a group of 2nd grade kids?

I put up a mini-whiteboard in front of the chalk board and used this as my "talking board." Also I made a short and to-the-point PowerPoint explaining my situation and asking for their cooperation. I also outlined what we were doing so they knew how to stay on task. I shortened my lessons to book work and then a game I could play with them that I could get away without speaking. It went well and I did my best to not stress myself.

That's the other big thing, stress. I think when one is sick they tend to really not want to work, but when made to things can get stressful. "How will I do this?" You probably think as your head is pounding and throat aching. I have to say just relax and let the classes flow. Don't hold the kids up to high expectations on behavior. In general you just want to get through the day and hopefully the target pages you need done. You can go back to your regular teaching self after feeling better.

I must also say that I got the most sympathy from the low-level students. Even one of these kids who is notorious for being a goofball, came up to me and patted me on the back. That was very sweet!

So don't put your stress out on the students, as they are just there and it's not really their fault. Find some filler games, worksheets or activities that won't require too much work on your part.

Since the homeroom teachers helped me out a lot I gave them a cold coffee drink as a thank you. They were very surprised to see this, and I think it showed I appreciated their effort. Even the Vice Principal at the school asked me if I was doing better everyday (she did it again today), and sometimes told me to go to the nurse to get my temp checked. So Korean people will definitely feel for you and want to help you, but prefer you work through it.

That's how I got through a week of a aches and pains at work. I'm glad to be better now.

Tonsillitis is not a friend

I'm home sick with Tonsillitus and swollen lymph nodes. I've had sore throats before but this takes the cake. Also I hate being home sick from work, as that is really taboo in Korea. Thankfully it was just my high levels today and not the 6 classes set up. Also I have work for the kids to do in my place. 

I hope to rest up and medicate so that I can return to work tomorrow. I might teach without speaking...how that works exactly I'll figure out. Maybe make Powerpoints with instructions on it. Fun! 

But really, my throat aches, my ear feels like someone is trying to bash it in and swallowing leaves something to be desired. On top of that I don't have any chicken soup in the house or the ingredients to make it, so I'm going to scramble my resources and see if I can find something outside later. 

Don't get sick people!

First Week Back - Second Semester

The first week of the Fall semester has flown by, and was all right. I started things off by giving one of our homeroom teacher's a gift for her baby. It was a nice soft blanket I found at a baby store. She was very surprised to get it from me. This is her first baby and I thought I would give her a gift to celebrate such an occasion. Later on in the week she came up to me in the lunch room and told me that her son slept very well with the blanket I gave her.

We got our level testing done and unfortunately not much was changed in one class that needed it. However, the rest of the groups seem to be doing all right. A handful of students dropped out of my school, a few of which I was happy and sad to see go. There are some empty spots and I'm sure they will fill them up quick.

I am happy this semester because I have finished planning all my lessons for the whole year. This means I can sit back and let the regular paperwork flow in. I just need to make the materials for the following months (actually I'm caught up to October). Most importantly this gives me the ability to focus on this semester's big event, the drama festival. Since I'm the team leader I will be getting everyone ready and making sure it works out. Yet I have confidence in my team and it's pretty much straightforward after you practice for a few days with the kids.

Otherwise the second semester has a lot of vacation in it, which means it is a bit more relaxed. I just hope to give my students my best and be patient with the low levels. Already I've seen these students grow so much and it warms my heart to see their English has improved since last year. I hope I had something to do with that!

Seoul KOTESOL Chapter Meeting

I have decided to take teaching English a bit more seriously, and in that process realized it might be a good idea to join the KOTESOL group. About two or three years ago I attended their international conference they hold each year in the Fall. Although I showed up at the last half of it, I remember it felt great to be around folks who are interested in teaching English.

Yesterday, I attended the Seoul chapter of the group and enjoyed their monthly meeting nearby Sookmyung University. It was a hot and sultry afternoon when I arrived, and due to a busy morning had skipped lunch. But I grabbed a snack and joined folks in the cool air-conditioned room. There I was greeted by Stafford from the Chosun Bimbo, whom I have had the pleasure of meeting at other events. I also was greeted to some other nice folks who are part of the group.

Things got under way and soon there were two groups swapping stories and ideas about the 4 basic skills one teaches in this job. (Reading, writing, speaking, and listening). I found myself having to kick on the gears in my head and respond to questions like, "Have you had any successful speaking activities lately?" I teach 2nd grade math, and explained that most of the time my goals are for the students to not speak Korean and that the lower levels do well. But I chimed in with several examples and statements on the topics, adding my own flare to the group. Mostly, I just enjoyed being around people who take their teaching job seriously and want to learn more. I hate to say this, and not sound terrible, but I find myself at work not having many conversations about the actual teaching job. Mostly we talk about which students are our favorites and which ones we wish would fall down a well. When it comes to talking about improving our lessons, or how to get the kids to speak, all of that kind of wandered off from the beginning.

But at my school we are left to our own devices and can teach however we see fit, so it is no wonder people don't really feel like talking about it. However, usually we meet with other members at the school to discuss the subject we are teaching (subject meetings). Thankfully, at these events people talk about how to improve and get the kids to use their skills more.

Back to the fun times at the Seoul chapter KOTESOL meeting. We finished up our group discussions and then headed up the hill to the Hyochang park. Both of these areas were new to me, and sorry I didn't grab any pictures. Actually, I brought my camera but realized that I attached my macro lens on accident.

The park picnic was very pleasant, and gave everyone a chance to gab about this and that. I was amongst other seasoned residents of Korea, and so we reflected on how things have changed over time.

All in all, I look forward to attending future meetings and making it to the International Conference in October. I also highly recommend anyone interested in perking up their teaching career to give the group a shot. Enrollment fees are half off, apparently and with membership you get discounts to their big events. Plus, nothing really beats the conversations you can have about teaching and people you can meet who have been in this field for some time.

Head on over to the KOTESOL website, and if you fancy it try out joining as a member.

Milestones

Today I completed my second time of open classes at my current school. When I went through this last year I was way more nervous. I really wanted to make a good impression last year, and so rolled out high energy and a lot of activities. This year, I was still a little nervous but seemed to calmly get through it.

When the parents are squished inside the classroom staring at you, there is a sense that you really are putting on a show. However, since I have been teaching the same set of kids since last year I felt like this show was familiar to everyone. Anyways, my open classes went well and I got mostly excellent reviews with a few touchy comments. One parent observed that I did not correct their son who made a sentence error and that I should spend time helping them on this. That is obviously something I should do, and I guess I haven't really considered making time for it in my lessons. Usually I just roll through the lessons only stopping a few times to correct students. This is bad to admit, I'm realizing. Ah well, good medicine!

I find passing through this semester's open classes as coming to a milestone. It means the semester is almost over, and all the paper work is soon to pile up. Report cards, final tests and so on, will be on their way.

As a team leader I've had some ups and downs, and definitely have more respect for people in any kind of managerial position. There were some times there that I lost my head and ran around a little spazzed out. Thankfully the members on my team are forgiving and I learned what buttons I shouldn't press. I also came to the conclusion that I'm not in charge of the choices they make concerning how they teach their class or how they manage their equipment. (We aren't allowed to use the airconditioner at certain times.) I'm the kind of person who naturally likes and feels the need to follow all the rules. Sure I break them too, sometimes. But I'm just a stickler for these things. However, I have to realize that I can't go around pressing the rules onto my team. In the end, I want to keep things peaceful and running smoothly and not be a nagging person. Anyways, I realized that people are adults and can be responsible without my interference. So I mostly just try to be a team leader in the sense of keeping up with the due dates, transpiring messages from the Korean staff and informing my team on any updates or procedures. Otherwise I just want to be a part of the team and keep my work going.

Another reminder for me at this milestone is knowing that I am nearly halfway through this year. At some point the question of 2013 is going to come up. For now, I want to stay at this school and continue where I am. But I should think of Plan B just in case the school, for some unknown reason, doesn't want to keep me. The, "What do I do next?" question lingers around me, these days.

Well summer has planted it's feet here in Seoul and the temperature is up in the 80's these days. I'm hoping to do something for my vacation this year that involves beaches and a quiet get away. :)

Back to Work

Yesterday was a full day of learning what it will be like to be the team leader of the 2nd grade, at my school. It wasn't too bad, but of course started out with a hiccup. I arrived about 30 minutes early to rearrange the desks, and got this done. Then as I was heading back from a quick peek into a new teacher meeting there were students sitting in my room. I wasn't sure why, and after standing there for a while and seeing the parents outside I realized they were new students. They needed the level test and that is what they were waiting for.

Alas, I didn't have the level test and so spent the next 15 minutes chasing it down. I got a hold of the paper tests but didn't have the listening promps or answer sheet. Time was wasting so I handed the tests to the students and had them skip the listening till that was ready. I then realized I might have the paperwork somewhere amongst my stuff scattered about the classroom. I found it and all was well, except the testing ate up an hour or so of my morning.

All the while I didn't panic and just carried out the task as if it were a usual thing. After this was done I met up with my new team of foreign teachers and quickly said hello and had them get things ready in their room, while I did the same. Later we went out to lunch together and I filled them in about the procedures at school and answered their questions.

Unfortunately, we didn't really get to know our Korean homeroom teachers as they were busy with their own duties. I however managed to meet with the one homeroom teacher who will be my "go-to" person for the grade. She is very nice and seems use to communicating with us foreign folk. Also the head teacher of the grade (the Song teacher) is a guy and speaks English himself. I'm glad the head teacher is a guy as I am more comfortable around Korean men than older Korean women. Anyways, the general outlook of the 2nd grade Korean staff look very nice and communicative. One strange thing is that one of the homeroom teachers is also the school's new Vice Principal, who is a nice lady but also has that serious face about her. I'm going on that she will be too busy to really be much in the way.

Surprisingly, we are starting classes Monday and so that means my lesson planning is going to go into effect. I don't mind, just would have liked more time to ready the room and supplies. Ah well, what can you do?

A lot of paperwork this year and already I think I have to get started on it this weekend. Overall, though I walked away yesterday with a good feeling about this term. I just hope things calm down and get into a routine so it won't feel so overwhelming.

Looking Over My Work While Away

I managed to have some free time today to look over my upcoming work for next semester. I recall how before the semester ended, a few weeks ago, my mind was blown by the team leader stuff coming my way.

I figured I needed to give myself some time and then I can approach it with a clearer mind. Looking at it today I definitely feel better about the new duties. Mostly I see I will need to be that person in the middle who communicates and negotiates requests. There are some major duties to take care of, but I think there will be time to understand it all.

Mostly I just hope I will have enough time to set up my new room, including rearranging the teacher's desks and putting away all my materials. That first day back is a full schedule of orientation meetings and greeting new students. I kind of wish they would give us more time to set up.

Even though I am still feeling somewhat nervous about the upcoming term, I know I just need to start out with a smile and not let it all get to me. The other teachers (both Korean and none) will be busy and hoping for a good year. In other words, I won't be the only one a bit nervous that first week back.

I wrote all this down in a neat list fashion in my notebook and hope to reference it now and then while I am still out here. Just to prep myself mentally. But how can I keep my focus with weather in the high 70's and palm trees everywhere?!

First Team Leader Meeting

My mind is in a swirl and I am home cooking tofu stir-fry. But about an hour ago I learned about what it will be like being a team leader next term and the duties that are going to come my way. The school basically wants to overhaul the English Department. Make it more standardized, meaning tests and homework should have a set grading system. It all makes sense, with it showing that we should be more unified and organized. The main goal is to boost the English Department's reputation. For years now, as it has been observed, the attitude was "Here you go, you can figure it out." A very easy going attitude that showed the Korean teachers we were likely lazy and can't be motivated.

But it has me wanting to run for the hills. I knew I was going to be a team leader but now it is just about 3 weeks away! It's becoming a reality. I mostly feel insecure and that I will be a failure at communicating well with the K-teachers and also won't meet whatever standards my English teachers have. I will have to juggle two departments and be the intermediary. It looks like a big leadership position and I don't know if I'm ready. I'm in denial already and need to skip to the acceptance stage.

Thankfully, we had the meeting and it outlined what to prepare for and ways to get everyone ready that first day. But first impressions are important and I will be jet lagged and tired that first day back. I am mostly thinking to just be, "nice" and "sweet." Don't let the stress of it all show and go with the flow.

I'm going to slowly look back at the handout I received with all the information on it over the next few days. And over my time in America spend some time familiarizing it at a pace comfortable. Right now I just need to accept this is going to happen, and see it is an opportunity.

The Last Week

I made it! The last week of my first year at S* school is coming to it's end. I am amazed I made it this far considering how difficult it was at the beginning. Also I am impressed at how much my students have advanced and grown. Now I get to see them continue to grow in the 2nd grade.

This week seems sort of laid back. Instead of doing the level testing next semester, they changed it to now. So tomorrow and Weds we will be busy prompting tests and doing interviews. This means grading and imputing scores into the computer. Although, I won't be able to distribute the kids into their respective levels till next semester. I will need to do that with my new homeroom teachers. Classes are still being held, but a bit broken up. Wednesday is a "6-day" but some of that is having the kids watching a movie while I give a interview test. Then Thursday it is a true "6-day", but I have casual things planned. They will make a "Shape-book" and play a PPT Bomb game, which they love doing. Finally, on Friday things have been shortened and cut back to 4 periods. During that time of 30 minutes each, we will play another PPT Bomb game and they will get word search worksheets. I don't want to stress out and work too hard, due to needing to pack and travel Saturday.

If you have noticed I don't blog too much, so just consider this. I haven't been out much visiting places to save money for my trip. However, I plan to get back in the swing of things after my vacation. Of course I will post about the fun times I will have in Florida and D.C., for you guys. I never feel the need to apologize for not blogging enough and I'm not going to start now.

Thanks for all your support during this school year, I definitely had a better time at this school than at any before it. :)

Extending or Renewing Your Visa Experience 2012

I had the fun and pleasure today of making it to the Anguk Immigration Office to renew / extend my visa. Since I am staying at my school it was necessary for me to go to immigration and get this done on my own.

The documents I needed were pretty basic, compared to getting a new visa. This time all I needed was a copy of my contract, school's registration, passport..alien card...and other ones. Hehe you can check the immigration website.

Out of exit 6 you go up to the SK Hub building and take the stairs to the 2nd floor. Find your way to the big room with all the chairs and people sitting in them. Find the ticket machine and press the green button hard enough to make a ticket come out.

I didn't wait too long, and soon was sitting behind an English speaking assistant. I did have to run around for a few things to complete the process. Like buying the stamps from a different room and also making copies of my passport pages. In addition, I was made to scan my fingerprints. Finally, after all that I received my alien card back with a new date entered on the back. It was quite easy and probably would have went even faster had I made an appointment. Overall, I'm pretty happy and satisfied with my experience at immigration today. Hope all future immigration trips will be just as easy.

My Fractions Study Guide

Since the start of this recent semester I realized that these kids need extra study aids to get them through all the English math jargon. Also, it was starting to pester me that they kept on mistaking the word square for circle.

As I am planning for next year I am continuing on my path to make study guides. The above is the one I recently made for the fractions chapter. Now I must admit that I am actually a math dummy. However, I did very well during my math classes in college, mostly because I found algebraic formulas fascinating.

Thankfully, I teach 1st and soon to be 2nd grade math.  The book we are using makes it not only simple for the student but also for the teacher. However, I wanted to make sure that when I get around to saying "one-fifth" that the students understand what I am sputtering. So I hope this study guide will help them put words to picture.

Usually they just shove the paper into their bags and I don't see them again. Next year they are going to have class note books and these guides will get permanently glued into them.

Whenever a student did hold onto their study guide and pulled it out during a spelling bee challenge, I felt pretty proud. I usually would praise these students and point out to the others that their ability to spell "rectangular prism" would be easier if they had their guide with them. ;)

Keep it at 20C

A message came to our school that we have to keep our room heaters at 20C. If it is -3C outside then it isn't too warm in here.

This morning I saw the homeroom teachers blasting their rooms at 30C and so figured all is okay. But I don't really know. The official word is if you are caught twice doing it you will pay a huge ass fine. It is some kind of new mandate from the government. But really 20C...are you kidding me? Now I am going to think of buying a space heater for the room or somehow mask over the thermostat so it looks like I'm not using it.

I don't really plan on freezing this coming Winter camp, so you can suck an egg...government!

No More School on Saturdays Means Changes

Just got word, right before I sign my new contract, that due to the "no-more school on Saturdays" thing that there will be changes next year. Basically they are going to start the Fall semester (in August) 2 weeks earlier. This means my summer vacation won't be a full two weeks, and instead is going to end up split between camp. They might consider changing the camp dates to give us a full two weeks, but as things are likely in cement already...I doubt it.

I asked about winter vacation (for next year) and got this response, "One week off for Christmas, then camp, then 2 weeks off for vacation." Whether that means our vacation extends into a third week, I don't know. At my school you can opt out of doing camp, but the only hitch is you don't get paid for those weeks. They did say they are dropping camp from 3 weeks to just 2 weeks. Now this makes me wonder what they will cut out of the camp programs, as we just spent this semester redesigning a lot of the camp. Obviously there are going to be some major differences next year due to this "no-more-Saturday" stuff.

I kind of like that camp will be just 2 weeks, as 3 weeks with the same group of kids does get old very fast.

I've inquired whether these changes mean there will be more class time altogether with the students. After thinking about it, I guess it means we have 2 extra weeks...right? Well I suppose I'll have enough work for next year if we extend everything, seeing as I am already a month behind in my book due to the recent drama festival.

I'm just bummed that they are going to split my summer vacation, as that is really a headache.Also they are mentioning now with no time to think about not resigning and looking for a school with better vacation. But I think this is a Seoul-wide problem and likely other schools are dealing with it too. I am signing the new contract today and really hope to get a raise, if not I want to hear a decent reason why.

October Field Trip: Dream Forest

For the October field trip the kiddos were taken to the Dream Forest. This was a good idea as it was close to the school, but a sort of bad idea because we walked a lot.

I didn't know the Dream Forest had a little zoo and so was a bit surprised. Mostly the animals were deer, though.

We headed to the art museum where they took in a show of Robot art, some of which I have seen on display at a different park.

Was there a guide to stop the kids and explain the exhibit or engage them in the theme? No, there wasn't. Instead the Korean homeroom teachers took them along and occasionally made remarks.

After the art exhibit the children were led outside to a large circular area.

Here the homeroom teachers engaged the children in some kind of outdoor games. The group I was with played some kind of run-in-a-circle altogether...game.

After which everyone ate lunch and then got free time to play on the playground.

The last field trip of the year is coming up in November, and I wonder where we will go.

Drama Festival Wrap Up

It went well and all the kids from every group performed to their best. I didn't hear any homeroom teachers complain about it, which is great. Just one snafu, last week one of my boys got scratched by another without my notice. So mom is upset, which makes the homeroom teacher have to deal with this. That leads to said homeroom teacher coming to me and telling me that I should keep my eyes on everyone all the time. Thanks!

So it is the end of October and I believe I should be hearing about my renewal. With this latest snafu I am hoping my ,"Yes, of course I can" attitude keeps everyone happy. But rumors have it that lots of teachers are planning, for various reasons, to move on from this school. So I think they would like to try and keep as many as they can.  I haven't heard anything yet, as the drama festival is still going on for other grades.

Just hope my nervousness, from that meeting with the homeroom teacher today, isn't a sign of bad news to come. hmm

The Stress Mill

Drama Festival is next week and so the kids have been pushed to practice their script, dances and positions. The pressure seems to steam off from the homeroom teachers throughout the day. I am trying my best to keep a cool head and also just do the job of practicing with the students.

To be honest, I am tired and just want this to be over with. I don't think I was prepared walking into this, due to that it is becoming so rigorous. Maybe I was naive in that department, or all this "life" stuff blinded me.

But really I am keeping my chin up and hoping for the best. I think the kids will perform well, but that mine will look a little different from the rest.

I think next week they will announce if they will give me another contract or not. So I am kind of holding my breath till then. With my release of being in a relationship I feel like anything is possible, which is both good and scary.

The end of October as always is another stressful time here in Korea. But, you know, I am enjoying the Fall colors amongst all this. Are you?