Well, unfortunately, rainy season has begun here in Nagasaki. The umbrella stand is filled with every color of the rainbow! Usually, we have a couple of lonely umbrellas left in the stand at the end of the day, despite saying “Don’t forget your umbrellas!” Kids will be kids, I guess.
May was an interesting month for our adult classes. The students were tasked with doing a demonstration for the class and explaining what they were doing as they did it. We enjoyed learning about such diverse topics as: folding a yukata, doing C.P.R., making scones, changing diapers, taking English notes while watching movies…lots of interesting things! I have to admit, I was surprised by the time and energy that it took to prepare for the demonstrations. My students always impress me, and we have a few more demos to enjoy this coming week.
I’ve been using “sight words” every week for a long time now. One thing that I really enjoy is watching the students’ reading ability flourish. I’m an avid reader, so it really makes me feel good if I can instill a desire to read in the students. My picture book students are getting older, and we’re considering trying a story book next. Are we ready? We shall see!
New students bring new ideas, experiences and abilities to the lessons. It’s always good to see a new face, and sad to see some familiar ones as they leave. This week, a few high school third-graders left us to prepare for the next phase of their studies. A couple of them shed some tears, but we told them not to be strangers and to let us see them again when they had the chance. I’ve “friended” some of my former students on Facebook and enjoy watching them move on and accept new challenges. It’s a good feeling to know that Emi and I have contributed in some small way to their development. I wish them all the best of luck.
Well, Saturday lessons are wrapped up and, after I jot down a few notes, I’ll see what I can find for dinner. Have a great June, stay dry (if possible) and stay well.
Jeff
