It's amazing to see that regardless of which grade or subject each of us is teaching at the BNC, one thing is clear: we've all fallen in love with each of our students. Each day that I have spent at the center, I've grown as a learner, teacher, friend, and compassionate human being. When I decided to partake in this service trip, I only hoped that I had the teaching abilities and experiences to make a profound difference, if not to all, to at least just one of my students. But to be completely honest, I knew little about the LaSallian virtues and wouldn't have been able to name half of them. But in my short time here in Namibia, with 7 amazing friends and 4 fantastic professors, I have seen all 12 virtues at work both inside and outside of the classroom. As a team, Sinead, Kate, Danny, Mike, Becca, Mary, Christina, Dean Merriman, Dr. McCarthy, Dr. Nicholson, and Brother Nicoletti have shown me what each of the 12 virtues truly means. The result: a compassionate teacher who touches the minds and hearts of her students.
When Sinead and I stepped foot into our first grade classroom on our first day at the BNC, we immediately took notice to things we wanted to establish: namely, a behavior system, a set of classroom rules, and a text rich environment. Our second day, we were hard at work completing these tasks. Together we figured out a way to rearrange the classroom as a means to provide the sudents with an effective learning environment in such a confined space. We moved around students' desks and chairs based on our judgement of cooperative learning groups, we created a list of positive classroom rules with the students to balance out the feeling of community and give students the sense of responsibility for their actions, and we labeled the entire classroom and created a Word Wall to provide our students a print-rich environment, which is pivotal during this developmental time.
More and more, as Sinead and I grew to know our students and their ability levels, we realized that even the alphabet and letter sounds gave them such a hard time. While the alphabet was painted to the wall in the classroom, there were no pictures of objects that would help students make the connection to letter sounds. I spent hours drawing pictures for each letter of the alphabet, but the result was well worth it. Who would have known that I was quite the Picasso? Just kidding! When we went over each letter, sound, and corresponding picture with the students, we asked each of them to hang the picture next to the corresponding letter, to provide them with a sense of pride in transforming their humdrum classroom into a beautiful and effective environment designed to maximize their learning.
Following this activity, we took our students outside and split the class in half to write the alphabet and words in chalk on the concrete, while the other half of the class jumproped to "Strawberry shortcake cream on top! Tell me the name of your sweetheart, is it A,B,C,D..." We engaged our tactile, bodily kinesthetic, and musical learners, where sometimes, these intelligences are neglected in the classroom. The students' reactions were amazing to see, and the end result was so rewarding.
It's beginning to sink in that after our weekend in Swaka-waka (Swakopmund?), we'll only have a few days left at the center. In such a short period of time, I have learned so much about myself and my students (dang, I'm already calling them "mine!"), and it's going to be so hard to say goodbye!
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Three days later...
I can't believe how fast this week has flown by. Mary's title of her last post "speechless" could not describe it any more perfectly. This week has been amazing and I wish it never had to end. We visited two local schools in Namibia to see what they were like. One was Community Hope School, with many volunteers and another Steenkapm Primary School, with Namibian teachers. Many of us were surprised, to say the least. We really take the school system we have in the US for granted. These visits only made me want to come back to teach here for a year even more.
Laura and I have been doing whatever we can to enhance the first graders learning at the BNC. We've added a lot to the classroom to make it a much more age appropriate print-rich environment for them. We've added pictures to the alphabet, a word wall and labels. We've even added in a behavior management system that the students could clearly comprehend. I couldn't have been any happier with the results of everything we have done. We've really come together with our thoughts and ideas to make this experience worthwhile for both ourselves, and most importantly, the students.
I'm excited for this weekend away and to experience more parts of Africa. However, it makes me sad thinking about coming back and only having two days left at the BNC. We watched Liz say goodbye to the students today and it was heartbreaking. The students were singing an African song and some of the lyrics included "we will never forget you." We also had the students write her goodbye letters. This alone made Laura and I tear up so I can only imagine what Tuesday is going to be like. But after last night with everyone, I know this weekend should be interesting and so much fun. I love this group and can't wait for another bonding experience.
Here are some pictures of this past week! Hope you love them alll.
To all my family and friends taking the time to read our blog, LOVE YOU ALL and see you in less than a week!
Laura and I have been doing whatever we can to enhance the first graders learning at the BNC. We've added a lot to the classroom to make it a much more age appropriate print-rich environment for them. We've added pictures to the alphabet, a word wall and labels. We've even added in a behavior management system that the students could clearly comprehend. I couldn't have been any happier with the results of everything we have done. We've really come together with our thoughts and ideas to make this experience worthwhile for both ourselves, and most importantly, the students.
I'm excited for this weekend away and to experience more parts of Africa. However, it makes me sad thinking about coming back and only having two days left at the BNC. We watched Liz say goodbye to the students today and it was heartbreaking. The students were singing an African song and some of the lyrics included "we will never forget you." We also had the students write her goodbye letters. This alone made Laura and I tear up so I can only imagine what Tuesday is going to be like. But after last night with everyone, I know this weekend should be interesting and so much fun. I love this group and can't wait for another bonding experience.
Here are some pictures of this past week! Hope you love them alll.
To all my family and friends taking the time to read our blog, LOVE YOU ALL and see you in less than a week!
Week One, Done!
Hey Followers --
Holy moly, this week flew the heck by! Day 1, as I blogged was rough. Day 2 was incredible.
Day 3 (Wednesday) was probably one of the BEST days I've ever had teaching. Ever. I know I said something like this before but seriously. We got to the BNC around 10 am (keep in mind the students come after school and we don't teach until 2:30 pm) to plan out our day. Resources are limited. We rip paper. We sharpen pencils that are down to where the eraser was. I created my own deck of I Have, Who Has cards with the 9 & 8 times tables (taken from a grad class this semester). I also planned for the students to create Fact Families for these tables to begin to introduce division. Additionally, I had the students create and have a face-off on their own 3-digit multiplication problems. For ELA (that's English Language Arts for all you non-teacher folks) Cynthia and I planned to play Boggle with the students and have them use their words in as few sentences as possible to help develop their creative writing and their sentence writing abilities. All of these activities went amazingly - one of their spelling words this week. The kids ate up I Have, Who Has and made me make some for the 7 & 6 times tables. I'm going to make more this weekend for the rest of the 1-15 times tables for future teachers to use with these kids. Their biggest problem is conceptualizing just about everything they are learning since the Namibian curriculum focuses on memorization.
After teaching we went to Joe's Beerhouse, and I ordered the sampler platter which contained chicken, ostrich, crocodile, zebra and kudu (be proud, Ma & Dad!). The best was ostrich! One of the best meats I've ever tasted in my life.
Day 4 (Thursday) was exhausting. We got up extra early to go to 2 local schools here in Katutura. The first, Community Hope School, is run by a man we met on the plane. We observed some classrooms and I was immediately tackled to the ground, literally, by a bunch of students outside (see the picture on the right). I don't even know their names or grade, which shows just how loving and accepting these Namibian students are. Afterwards we went to A.I. Steemkamp, which is a primary school that feeds into the BNC. I got to observe a kindergarten classroom with Becca. The teacher was great and the kids were obviously adorable, but other aspects of the school were blah. They value their education but it's tough when schools lack the structure needed for great learning.
Back at the BNC, Mike, Kate, Becca and I combined our 3 classes (fifth, sixth and seventh grade) for centers. With 30+ kids in the room it seriously couldn't have gone smoother. We had 2 sets of 5 centers, which varied math and ELA games. A wicked fun afternoon after an exhausting morning. It was tough to say goodbye today knowing we won't be back until Monday and that we only have 2 days left next week. Two days is not nearly enough to get everything done. I may accidentally bring 9 fifth graders back to the States with me (make room back home!).
These kids are lovable and want to learn. They may not enjoy every aspect but they try their best. And I'm trying my best to reach them the best as I can. There's so little we can do in under two weeks. Hopefully we can make a difference for these students and the BNC. I'll do anything I can to get back here next summer, especially to see my fifth graders in the sixth grade.
Sadly, Cynthia and Liz leave us tomorrow and head back to New York. They've been here for 4 weeks and were great assets to the BNC and our trip (especially as resources) and we'll miss them! But they live nearby MC so hopefully we'll remain in touch. The people we are meeting here are incredible! We're getting pretty close with them and I hope our friendships continue back in America.
Well, off to pack for our final weekend in Africa! We're heading to Swakopmund at 2 am (like 2 hours from right now). Bring on the 5 hour drive, the Namib Desert with sand dunes, sand boarding, a cruise into the southern Atlantic and a great time with the best people ever!
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Speechless
It is day two and I am about to go to sleep. I have waited all day to post on the blog because I literally cannot find the words to describe what an extremely incredible experience that I am having.
I am not only forming a bond with my students, my fellow teachers and volunteers, but I am forming a relationship with myself. Reflecting on my life previous to this emotional, professional, and educational journey, I know now that I have been more than blessed in my lifetime.
Nothing that I write on this blog tonight will properly articulate what I am feeling. And this is only the second day of class with my little scholars!
I am so proud to be teaching alongside such selfless and passionate volunteers from MC. I can learn so much from each and every one of them and look up to them very very much.
I will post pictures to my facebook because the blog will not allow me to at the moment. I think the pictures speak for themselves...
I am not only forming a bond with my students, my fellow teachers and volunteers, but I am forming a relationship with myself. Reflecting on my life previous to this emotional, professional, and educational journey, I know now that I have been more than blessed in my lifetime.
Nothing that I write on this blog tonight will properly articulate what I am feeling. And this is only the second day of class with my little scholars!
I am so proud to be teaching alongside such selfless and passionate volunteers from MC. I can learn so much from each and every one of them and look up to them very very much.
I will post pictures to my facebook because the blog will not allow me to at the moment. I think the pictures speak for themselves...
It's Christina!
Greetings everyone! It's Christina from Laura's account. I can't remember my account information so Laura was nice enough to let me use hers. The past week has been crazy, but amazing. I feel like I haven't had a chance to breathe but I wouldn't change any of it. Today was our second day at the centre working with the local children and I could not be happier. I am working with another volunteer from Germany and we have a group of six fourth graders. Their names are Emmerhensia, Iyambo, Marina, Odette, Rudolph, and Dustin. They are all so appreciative and enthusiastic about learning. They are on different levels so it can be difficult but they do seem to be absorbing information. For example, today I went over subtraction problems with them where they had to "borrow from a neighbor number". I was a little nervous because their previous teacher said they had a great deal of trouble grasping the concept. Today however, they seemed to understand it well. It was very exciting!
I was thinking about it earlier and I don't think I have admired anyone more than I admire Marybeth. She has devoted her entire life to this program and it is obvious how passionate she is about it. She is making a difference in so many lives, it is incredible. I would love to do something like that some day.
Namibia is such an interesting country. I found out yesterday that before the holocaust, concentration camps were used in a Namibian town. How crazy is that? Everyone here is very friendly. I feel so welcome! A few of the people I have met that work at the guest house and as our tour guides are so knowledgeable. They know so much about their country and have so much pride. Yesterday, one of the men, Patrick, gave a speech on the history of Namibia. It was very interesting and informative. Patrick is attending Columbia's Teacher College this September. He was also picked a few years ago to go to D.C. and represent Namibia at a Young African Leader conference. While there, he met Preisdent Obama!
Well, it's about time to go. We are going to watch a Souh African movie about the Apartheid. Our Manhattan College group has had some great bonding experiences. I can't wait for more!
-Christina
I was thinking about it earlier and I don't think I have admired anyone more than I admire Marybeth. She has devoted her entire life to this program and it is obvious how passionate she is about it. She is making a difference in so many lives, it is incredible. I would love to do something like that some day.
Namibia is such an interesting country. I found out yesterday that before the holocaust, concentration camps were used in a Namibian town. How crazy is that? Everyone here is very friendly. I feel so welcome! A few of the people I have met that work at the guest house and as our tour guides are so knowledgeable. They know so much about their country and have so much pride. Yesterday, one of the men, Patrick, gave a speech on the history of Namibia. It was very interesting and informative. Patrick is attending Columbia's Teacher College this September. He was also picked a few years ago to go to D.C. and represent Namibia at a Young African Leader conference. While there, he met Preisdent Obama!
Well, it's about time to go. We are going to watch a Souh African movie about the Apartheid. Our Manhattan College group has had some great bonding experiences. I can't wait for more!
-Christina
Two Days Gone By
Hey Tina the Ballerina, Dad, Chris and all other followers (Ma, send this blog to Nana & Nanu and Needham Crawfords? Post the link on Facebook? Please and thank you!). And thanks for following and commenting. If only Amy would comment (we miss you too much Amy!).
The past two days, our first days teaching at the BNC, have been completely night and day, yet completely incredible. Yesterday we arrived for an orientation-like meeting in the morning where I got chosen to work in the fifth grade classroom at the centre. Cynthia, a housemate at the Wadadee House who went to Etosha with us this weekend, is my co-teacher and has been with these students for the past few weeks. We have ten students on the roster, not too bad considering how my fellow Jaspers have into the high teens and twenties in their classrooms.
Monday - The students arrived and it was a joy to play with them on the playground. After playing on the swings and having one boy ask me why my nose was so big I read a few stories to some children and they read to me. Right then and there the entire trip fell into place. After the students ate lunch we began our afternoon teaching! It went, well, kinda rough. Behavior wise the students are very similiar to the students I've worked with in New York, however, the biggest problem is stopping them from speaking local languages, because many students claim that some students say innapropriate things in these languages but we teachers can't understand. Anyways, Cynthia and I needed to adapt the curriculum to the students to help reach the basic needs of fifth grade math (times tables, two and three digit multiplication) and and ELA (writing complete sentences with details, text-to-self connections) as well as self confidence in their work and reading aloud. At the end of the day I was satisified that I got a basic assessment of their skills and levels and I realized that most cannot grasp concepts in both content areas.
Tuesday - This day went smoothly and I felt like it couldn't be better. Seriously. Cynthia and I gave the students assigned seats to help with management. We lost our Minute Math and I implemented Around the World with 8 and 9 times tables orally. Afterwards I asked the ten students present what they had to do while participating to make sure they understand the concept of this exercise as well as the math skills needed. Instead of drills and excercises we had the students compete against each other doing 3 digit multiplication problems at the board while the rest of the class did it in their notebooks. The class was silent. Silent! This set the best mood and tone for the rest of the day. The lesson went swimmingly after that. During ELA we did played Boggle with a twist - the students had to made 3 sentences using their words. This helped them gain the foundations sentence writing as they had to combine their words to fit them into sentences rather than just make a basic sentence per word. I hope to develop these sentences and skills further tomorrow.
We're meeting our halfway mark of the trip tomorrow. I wish I had money to stay out here. They really need as much help as they can get, and I feel like 2 weeks isn't enough. Most volunteers stay for 1 to 3 months. I'll have to make the best of my week left with these students. Today was probably the best day I've ever had as a teacher (including subbing, student teaching and interning). These children are incredible. They value their education and themselves. They all knew my name in a matter of seconds. They genuinely care about themselves, myself and their education. They are truly the Best Namibian Children.
Dinner time. That means I don't have time to proofread, sorry! But dinner, yeah! Yes Ma, I've been eating fun things. Lamb. Beef stew. Vegtables. Things I can't even pronounce. You'd be proud of me (and yes, Kate is basically being a mom making sure I eat and remain an unpicky eater). And I've been cooking better than ever! Tonight we're eating burgers made by Becca and Laura.
I leave you with a picture of Mike and me with some students on the playground this afternoon.
The past two days, our first days teaching at the BNC, have been completely night and day, yet completely incredible. Yesterday we arrived for an orientation-like meeting in the morning where I got chosen to work in the fifth grade classroom at the centre. Cynthia, a housemate at the Wadadee House who went to Etosha with us this weekend, is my co-teacher and has been with these students for the past few weeks. We have ten students on the roster, not too bad considering how my fellow Jaspers have into the high teens and twenties in their classrooms.
Monday - The students arrived and it was a joy to play with them on the playground. After playing on the swings and having one boy ask me why my nose was so big I read a few stories to some children and they read to me. Right then and there the entire trip fell into place. After the students ate lunch we began our afternoon teaching! It went, well, kinda rough. Behavior wise the students are very similiar to the students I've worked with in New York, however, the biggest problem is stopping them from speaking local languages, because many students claim that some students say innapropriate things in these languages but we teachers can't understand. Anyways, Cynthia and I needed to adapt the curriculum to the students to help reach the basic needs of fifth grade math (times tables, two and three digit multiplication) and and ELA (writing complete sentences with details, text-to-self connections) as well as self confidence in their work and reading aloud. At the end of the day I was satisified that I got a basic assessment of their skills and levels and I realized that most cannot grasp concepts in both content areas.
Tuesday - This day went smoothly and I felt like it couldn't be better. Seriously. Cynthia and I gave the students assigned seats to help with management. We lost our Minute Math and I implemented Around the World with 8 and 9 times tables orally. Afterwards I asked the ten students present what they had to do while participating to make sure they understand the concept of this exercise as well as the math skills needed. Instead of drills and excercises we had the students compete against each other doing 3 digit multiplication problems at the board while the rest of the class did it in their notebooks. The class was silent. Silent! This set the best mood and tone for the rest of the day. The lesson went swimmingly after that. During ELA we did played Boggle with a twist - the students had to made 3 sentences using their words. This helped them gain the foundations sentence writing as they had to combine their words to fit them into sentences rather than just make a basic sentence per word. I hope to develop these sentences and skills further tomorrow.
We're meeting our halfway mark of the trip tomorrow. I wish I had money to stay out here. They really need as much help as they can get, and I feel like 2 weeks isn't enough. Most volunteers stay for 1 to 3 months. I'll have to make the best of my week left with these students. Today was probably the best day I've ever had as a teacher (including subbing, student teaching and interning). These children are incredible. They value their education and themselves. They all knew my name in a matter of seconds. They genuinely care about themselves, myself and their education. They are truly the Best Namibian Children.
Dinner time. That means I don't have time to proofread, sorry! But dinner, yeah! Yes Ma, I've been eating fun things. Lamb. Beef stew. Vegtables. Things I can't even pronounce. You'd be proud of me (and yes, Kate is basically being a mom making sure I eat and remain an unpicky eater). And I've been cooking better than ever! Tonight we're eating burgers made by Becca and Laura.
I leave you with a picture of Mike and me with some students on the playground this afternoon.
You Guys...These Kids...
WEHA, Old Saybrook, Jersey, New York, Philly, and everyone else...
Today was day 2 with the kids at the center and I have absolutely fallen head over heels in love with them. I have a sixth grade classroom with Mike and I couldn't have asked for a better partner. I've been able to take on the English portion of the day while Mike is teaching math (trust me, it's for the best I stay away from the math...right Dad?).
My main goal in working with my 20 kids (depending on the day and who decides to show up or not) is getting them to creatively think and use that thought in their writing. The Namibian style of education is for the students to memorize, so they have a difficult time thinking on their own and forming original thoughts. Specifically, we've been working on sentences and having the kids expand their sentences beyond just "she kicked the ball" (mind you...my kids are in SIXTH grade). So yesterday we used our spelling words of the week to write sentences and focused on adding more detail to our sentences.
Today was one of the greatest days I have ever had in a classroom. My plan was to bring my kids outside and dribble a soccer ball in front of them (soccer is huge here...and yes, Dad, Jack, and Thomas...me...dribbling a soccer ball...I know...), have them tell me what I was doing, "Kate is kicking the ball", and then have them look around and describe where I was, what the weather was like, who else was around, and to use all their senses to explain what was going on. Unfortunately, since it is winter here and the kids don't have appropriate clothing for the weather (some even don't have shoes) I had to be an ADAPTIVE EXPERT (there's your shout-out Brother Ray) and create a new plan once the kids got into the classroom. We talked about the sentences again and how to add to them and then the kids gave examples of descriptive words they already knew. Then we read a book and every time the kids heard a descriptive word they had to raise their hands. They did such an amazing job and then when I gave them a prompt to write about the best days of their lives they were able to use such excellent language that I knew exactly what they were talking about. They all wanted to share and I cannot even tell you how proud I was of every single one of them. I promise I waited to cry until class was over though...
The difference between kids in America and the kids here is that these kids want to learn so so badly. When break time came and the kids were free to go outside, they BEGGED me to finish the lesson before they went outside for break. I couldn't believe it. I love it here more than I even thought was possible and I love how I can feel what a difference I'm making. It's like nothing I've ever experienced.
I'm so proud of myself and I'm so proud of the 7 people I am on this trip with. They are incredible teachers and they are willing to do more than just anyone ever would for these kids. The resources and location we have to work with are difficult to put into words and today I saw Mike make an INCREDIBLY effective mixed number lesson using egg crates and beer bottle caps. This experience is the best one of my life and I hate to say it (Mom and Dad) but I'm not sure America is where I'm supposed to teach anymore...
;)
I love you all so much and I miss you.
xoxo
Kate
Today was day 2 with the kids at the center and I have absolutely fallen head over heels in love with them. I have a sixth grade classroom with Mike and I couldn't have asked for a better partner. I've been able to take on the English portion of the day while Mike is teaching math (trust me, it's for the best I stay away from the math...right Dad?).
My main goal in working with my 20 kids (depending on the day and who decides to show up or not) is getting them to creatively think and use that thought in their writing. The Namibian style of education is for the students to memorize, so they have a difficult time thinking on their own and forming original thoughts. Specifically, we've been working on sentences and having the kids expand their sentences beyond just "she kicked the ball" (mind you...my kids are in SIXTH grade). So yesterday we used our spelling words of the week to write sentences and focused on adding more detail to our sentences.
Today was one of the greatest days I have ever had in a classroom. My plan was to bring my kids outside and dribble a soccer ball in front of them (soccer is huge here...and yes, Dad, Jack, and Thomas...me...dribbling a soccer ball...I know...), have them tell me what I was doing, "Kate is kicking the ball", and then have them look around and describe where I was, what the weather was like, who else was around, and to use all their senses to explain what was going on. Unfortunately, since it is winter here and the kids don't have appropriate clothing for the weather (some even don't have shoes) I had to be an ADAPTIVE EXPERT (there's your shout-out Brother Ray) and create a new plan once the kids got into the classroom. We talked about the sentences again and how to add to them and then the kids gave examples of descriptive words they already knew. Then we read a book and every time the kids heard a descriptive word they had to raise their hands. They did such an amazing job and then when I gave them a prompt to write about the best days of their lives they were able to use such excellent language that I knew exactly what they were talking about. They all wanted to share and I cannot even tell you how proud I was of every single one of them. I promise I waited to cry until class was over though...
The difference between kids in America and the kids here is that these kids want to learn so so badly. When break time came and the kids were free to go outside, they BEGGED me to finish the lesson before they went outside for break. I couldn't believe it. I love it here more than I even thought was possible and I love how I can feel what a difference I'm making. It's like nothing I've ever experienced.
I'm so proud of myself and I'm so proud of the 7 people I am on this trip with. They are incredible teachers and they are willing to do more than just anyone ever would for these kids. The resources and location we have to work with are difficult to put into words and today I saw Mike make an INCREDIBLY effective mixed number lesson using egg crates and beer bottle caps. This experience is the best one of my life and I hate to say it (Mom and Dad) but I'm not sure America is where I'm supposed to teach anymore...
;)
I love you all so much and I miss you.
xoxo
Kate
Monday, June 6, 2011
Meeting my BNC 4th Graders!
Wow! There is nothing in this world that I would have rather done with my day than spend it with the loud, chatty, out of control, misbehaved, 4th graders at the BNC today. To some this may sound like complete nonsense, but I seriously would not rather have been anywhere else.
What I observed throughout the day with my 14 students is that they are behaviorally just normal fourth grade students; They copy what their friends write down, they want to please the teacher but do not behave accordingly, they love hugs, they always want to be correct, they tease other students, they do not always listen to directions, etc. However, the only difference (that it took me all day to conclude) is that these Namibian students are at this center voluntarily. These students want to be here and they want to learn. They value their education to a very high degree.
What American elementary student would stay after school to do reading/writing and math until the sun goes down, by choice?
Keep in mind, most of these students do not have electricity or money for candles so when they go home there are very little activities for them to engage in. Which is also why many students of Katatura do not complete their homework unfortunately.
Another thing I found interesting was that Namibians have a lot of holidays and a lot of time off from school. Sometimes to make up for the lost time, the students are called in to school on Saturdays.
My Namibian students left me in awe today with their attitudes towards learning. Again and again I see the virtues of an effective teacher popping up from everywhere. Specifically silence today, to be in awe of something like I was a child again sitting in an ice cream shop feeling like it was the best place that I have ever been, just so speechless. To observe each individual life without judgement, really left me in amazement.
Some of the students called me Miss Mary and others just called me "teacher." Which some of the volunteers at the center don't like, but I love it! About half of the class gave me a big hug as they left the classroom and thanked me. Thanked me!!!
Today was sort of an introduction/breaking the ice day because I really wanted to learn more about them. For the Do Now, I wrote a letter about myself on the board and had them write letters to me about themselves. They did beautifully! And then of course we made a list of rules as a class. Everyone promised to do their best to follow the rules not only inside the BNC but in their other classrooms, at home, in their society, and in life. We all put our John Handcock on the bottom of the rules, I hung it up, and that was good enough for me.
Tomorrow will be another exciting day to teach math and most importantly to learn more about my eager-to-learn students. I just cannot wait!
What I observed throughout the day with my 14 students is that they are behaviorally just normal fourth grade students; They copy what their friends write down, they want to please the teacher but do not behave accordingly, they love hugs, they always want to be correct, they tease other students, they do not always listen to directions, etc. However, the only difference (that it took me all day to conclude) is that these Namibian students are at this center voluntarily. These students want to be here and they want to learn. They value their education to a very high degree.
What American elementary student would stay after school to do reading/writing and math until the sun goes down, by choice?
Keep in mind, most of these students do not have electricity or money for candles so when they go home there are very little activities for them to engage in. Which is also why many students of Katatura do not complete their homework unfortunately.
Another thing I found interesting was that Namibians have a lot of holidays and a lot of time off from school. Sometimes to make up for the lost time, the students are called in to school on Saturdays.
My Namibian students left me in awe today with their attitudes towards learning. Again and again I see the virtues of an effective teacher popping up from everywhere. Specifically silence today, to be in awe of something like I was a child again sitting in an ice cream shop feeling like it was the best place that I have ever been, just so speechless. To observe each individual life without judgement, really left me in amazement.
Some of the students called me Miss Mary and others just called me "teacher." Which some of the volunteers at the center don't like, but I love it! About half of the class gave me a big hug as they left the classroom and thanked me. Thanked me!!!
Today was sort of an introduction/breaking the ice day because I really wanted to learn more about them. For the Do Now, I wrote a letter about myself on the board and had them write letters to me about themselves. They did beautifully! And then of course we made a list of rules as a class. Everyone promised to do their best to follow the rules not only inside the BNC but in their other classrooms, at home, in their society, and in life. We all put our John Handcock on the bottom of the rules, I hung it up, and that was good enough for me.
Tomorrow will be another exciting day to teach math and most importantly to learn more about my eager-to-learn students. I just cannot wait!
Day One at BNC
I'm so excited to finally post on this wonderful blog Dr. McCarthy created for our friends and family to follow along with us during our visit to Namibia. After reflecting with our team last night, I went to sleep thinking about The Twelve Virtues of A Good Teacher, which was created by Saint John Baptist De La Salle. I thought about how important it is for myself to bring those virtues into the classroom. I'm positive that by using the Twelve Virtues, not only will the student learn, but also ourselves.Today was a much anticipated first full day at the BNC. I woke up ready and excited for the big day ahead of us. After the morning meetings, we all figured out exactly what we were going to be teaching for the rest of my time here. I will be joining the sixth grade class, which consists of twenty boys and girls. I will be working with a wonderful volunteer named Hannah, who has been working at the center for almost three months. My kind and amazing friend Kate will also be teaching in the same sixth grade class. The three of us decided that this outstanding team would work together to instruct the students. Kate would teach English and I would teach mathematics. This plan will help these wonderful students that we would meet shortly.
Before the students arrived, my nerves were going crazy with anticipation, eager to meet all the children. At first a few students started to arrive, which gave us time to interact with them, while they waited for class to begin. At this time, I had an opportunity to kick a ball around with one boy. As time went on, more children had arrived eager to learn and play. At this point I was playing soccer with about twelve boys, while all the other children were running around, playing, or reading. I decided that it would be a good idea to read to the boys, so they could relax before heading to class. I couldn't have been happier to see all the excitement they had for a person to read to them. In a flash we hurried to find a book, and choose Two Left Feet. Finally, my long life dream of teaching children was in affect. As I was reading aloud, more and more children came to listen. Being a male volunteer is something that these children may not use to. I was so pleased to see how welcomed I was and how happy I made these children.
After the children washed their hands and ate lunch, it was time for the first session of classes to begin. Kate did an amazing job discussing and defining the ten spelling words of the week. I was so impressed with her amazing teaching skills, and I realized that we had an incredible group of young individual learners. After the first teaching session was finished the children had a quick recess for fifteen minutes and had to report back to class for the second session of class.
Finally, it was my turn to use what I had learned during my four years of college education and to teach mathematics. At the start of class, I had the students line up outside the doorway and I individually asked them to tell me their names and answer a quick multiplication question before entering the classroom. Individually, the students were instructed to work on a problem of the day before my lesson. After, I had the children review what they have been learning, and I learned that they were all bright and intelligent children. It was an extraordinary experience, to teach to these children. Today's first hand experience showed me that students in America and Namibia are taught in different ways, but the common goal of an exceptional education is still the focus. I truly cannot wait to work with this amazing group tomorrow!
P.S. Love you Mom!
Our First Real Day at BNC!
Last night we met for the first time as a group to talk about our upcoming week at BNC. For me, it was the first time that everything we came here to do felt real. We all had so many ideas and thoughts about what we wanted to accomplish while we were here. I think that the team we came here with could not be any more perfect for what we want to do. I think that the passion the eight of us have for teaching and impacting students lives is really going to shine through this week. I think that with our talents and the help of our knowledgeable and experienced professors, we are going to be able to really help Marybeth, the volunteers, the students and the center as a whole.Today was our first full day at the BNC. We arrived at the center at 9 am and began discussing everything right away. After hearing MaryBeth speak about what the volunteers have been doing, what was already established and what they needed, we began our day. Most of us were paired up with a Manhattan student and a volunteer teacher who has been there for a few weeks. Laura and I were placed in a first grade classroom. I was so excited to be working with students at this age, because I know how much help they need. However, I was so surprised to see the size of the room I was going to be spending the next week in. It was less than the size of a 9 by 9 room. I was nervous to see how 3 adult teachers and 17 first graders were going to fit in this space. This made me really appreciate the facilities in the schools I grew up in, as well as the schools I student taught in.
We were at the center from 9am to 5pm. We spent the morning planning out our day and the lessons we were going to teach. Laura and I decided to make a number line for the classroom and for each individual student, to help them during math. It was day one and we already had so many ideas of how we could enhance the classroom and the student's learning. The students arrived at 1:30 and I fell in love with each and every one of them. We were surrounded by over 100 kids running around, playing, reading, laughing and I couldn't help but smile and want to talk to all of them. I was taken by surprise when a second grade girl grabbed my hand and asked me to listen to her read. It was amazing to see this girl, who just finished many hours at school, want to show off her reading skills to me instead of playing with all the other kids. When she finished reading her eyes and smile was full of pride and it brought me to tears.
After the children had lunch we began teaching. Laura and I started off with the pronunciation of different letters in the alphabet. We tried many different methods of sounding out the word, having the students repeat and asking for different examples. Laura and I thought it would be a good idea to have different words each week that the teacher would work on with the students. We decided this week to focus on the "at family" (cat, mat, bat, sat, hat, rat). After the students had a brief break, it was time for math. In the morning we made bingo boards and flash cards, so the students could play addition bingo. I saw for the first time how challenging it was going to be in the little space we were in. However, I know we are both accepting this challenge with an open mind and heart and it is going to make us that much more determined to help in any way we can.
Although there were many differences from the first grade classrooms I have been in in New York, the children have so many similarities. Just like any classroom, there are students who are independent learners, instructional learners and remedial learners. I know that each student is different and we need to accommodate the needs of ALL the students, no matter what type of learner they are. I have confidence that the education we have all received, and the knowledge we have learned from our experiences, will help us throughout this journey. The day was long and tiring but I already can't wait to be back at the BNC tomorrow.
OurFirst Day at the BNC
Family, Friends, and Followers,
Today was our very long-anticipated first day at the Bernard Nordkamp Center! We woke up early, and although children do not come to the center until 1:30 pm, we arrived at the BNC at 9:00 am to have a brief orientation given by Marybeth Gallagher. Marybeth is spectacular- she's so lax, and she constantly expresses her enthusiasm in having us as helping hands. We learned a little bit about the center and it's flow-of-the-day, and just talked generally about how things are run at the center. Our team divided ourselves amongst the 7 classes, and needless to say, we jumped right in. Sinead and I paired up in a first grade classroom consisting of about 16 children an their teaching volunteer, Liz. When Sinead and I entered the classroom, we were stunned, to say the least. The "classroom" was no more than a 7 foot by 7 foot room, expecting to hold 4 tables with chairs, a cabinet where materials are stored, a white board, and the three volunteering teachers. We asked Liz to fill us in on what she had recently been doing with the students, in order for us to plan lessons for the day, since Sinead and I were eager to jump right into teaching. Based on what we learned about the students and their ability levels, we decided we would teach the chidren how to spell words in the "at" family for English, and for math, we created a BINGO addition game. We were both eager to meet the students and begin our journey teaching at the BNC.
When the kids arrive at the center, they have about a half hour to play before lunch is served and they begin classes. During this half hour, all of us had the opportunity to meet, play with, and interact with students from all of the grade levels. I was impressed by how polite and outgoing, and genuinely interested the children were in us, introducing themselves, asking our names and where we're from, and complimenting us constantly on our hair and clothes. The morning was filled with many smiles and laughs, both from us and the Best Namibian Children!
Mom, Daddy, Stef, Melinda, Alana, and the rest of my friends in particular, you would all appreciate this: the kids come up to me and ask me if I am from India! They brought over a book and showed me a picture of the Indian woman from the story, claiming that she and I Iook exactly alike. I've earned the title: "India teacher!"
One of the major things that Sinead and I would like to establish in our classroom, as well as something our team discussed as a whole for the entire center, is some sort of behavior management / positive reinforcement system. Marybeth expressed behavior management as one of her biggest concerns and hoped that our knowlege and experience would offer her something to follow, which we fully intend to do, especially after Sinead and I experienced how badly our class needs behavior management.
Needless to say, our first day at the BNC was fantastic, and our time will only continue to get better as we learn, grow, and get our hands dirty with these amazing children!
Today was our very long-anticipated first day at the Bernard Nordkamp Center! We woke up early, and although children do not come to the center until 1:30 pm, we arrived at the BNC at 9:00 am to have a brief orientation given by Marybeth Gallagher. Marybeth is spectacular- she's so lax, and she constantly expresses her enthusiasm in having us as helping hands. We learned a little bit about the center and it's flow-of-the-day, and just talked generally about how things are run at the center. Our team divided ourselves amongst the 7 classes, and needless to say, we jumped right in. Sinead and I paired up in a first grade classroom consisting of about 16 children an their teaching volunteer, Liz. When Sinead and I entered the classroom, we were stunned, to say the least. The "classroom" was no more than a 7 foot by 7 foot room, expecting to hold 4 tables with chairs, a cabinet where materials are stored, a white board, and the three volunteering teachers. We asked Liz to fill us in on what she had recently been doing with the students, in order for us to plan lessons for the day, since Sinead and I were eager to jump right into teaching. Based on what we learned about the students and their ability levels, we decided we would teach the chidren how to spell words in the "at" family for English, and for math, we created a BINGO addition game. We were both eager to meet the students and begin our journey teaching at the BNC.
When the kids arrive at the center, they have about a half hour to play before lunch is served and they begin classes. During this half hour, all of us had the opportunity to meet, play with, and interact with students from all of the grade levels. I was impressed by how polite and outgoing, and genuinely interested the children were in us, introducing themselves, asking our names and where we're from, and complimenting us constantly on our hair and clothes. The morning was filled with many smiles and laughs, both from us and the Best Namibian Children!
Mom, Daddy, Stef, Melinda, Alana, and the rest of my friends in particular, you would all appreciate this: the kids come up to me and ask me if I am from India! They brought over a book and showed me a picture of the Indian woman from the story, claiming that she and I Iook exactly alike. I've earned the title: "India teacher!"
One of the major things that Sinead and I would like to establish in our classroom, as well as something our team discussed as a whole for the entire center, is some sort of behavior management / positive reinforcement system. Marybeth expressed behavior management as one of her biggest concerns and hoped that our knowlege and experience would offer her something to follow, which we fully intend to do, especially after Sinead and I experienced how badly our class needs behavior management.
Needless to say, our first day at the BNC was fantastic, and our time will only continue to get better as we learn, grow, and get our hands dirty with these amazing children!
WADADEE HOUSE
We have had some amazing experiences in our short time in Namibia but I thought that I would make this blog posting about our living accommodations in Katutura. The following are some photos of WADADEE HOUSE. Click on the pictures to see a larger version in a new window. ENJOY!
Sunday, June 5, 2011
Adventures in Etosha!
6am Wake-Up 6/4/11
Our tour guide George is full of wisdom about his native country of Namibia. Last night he showed us all of the constellations in the clearest African night's sky I have ever witnessed. I learned so much about flora and fauna from him this weekend as well and will never forget his incredible wisdom. It almost makes me feel guilty for not having more knowledge about my own country. George always knew exactly when the animals would be where, that's how we got to see the rhino at the watering hole late at night!
Kate made an excellent observation that many advertisements here use real people in them. We explained that in America the advertisement models are usually extremely thin. One of Sean's friends who will be coming to the USA next year for Teacher's College informed us that he was "trying to lose weight" to come to America. Here, when someone is bigger it means that they are more wealthy and have the means to be nutritious and eat plentiful meals.
Today we saw elephants! We also saw a baby deer that was so tiny. George told us it was actually a type of antelope that was full grown called a dik dik.
We came up to the next campground at around 2pm and George and his cousin, Edward, prepared lunch. We went on another game drive and saw more elephants that came very very(too close) to the bus, it was incredible.
6am Wake-Up 6/5/11
Goodbye Etosha! We packed up camp and are on our way back to Katatura today. We stopped at a market where we bargained for some great souvenirs!
Tomorrow is our first full day at the center. I have a lot of reflecting to do tonight. These are the moments that define whether one chooses to make a difference or not.
I am really starting to miss everyone soooo much!
Kate made an excellent observation that many advertisements here use real people in them. We explained that in America the advertisement models are usually extremely thin. One of Sean's friends who will be coming to the USA next year for Teacher's College informed us that he was "trying to lose weight" to come to America. Here, when someone is bigger it means that they are more wealthy and have the means to be nutritious and eat plentiful meals.
Today we saw elephants! We also saw a baby deer that was so tiny. George told us it was actually a type of antelope that was full grown called a dik dik.
We came up to the next campground at around 2pm and George and his cousin, Edward, prepared lunch. We went on another game drive and saw more elephants that came very very(too close) to the bus, it was incredible.
6am Wake-Up 6/5/11
Goodbye Etosha! We packed up camp and are on our way back to Katatura today. We stopped at a market where we bargained for some great souvenirs!
Tomorrow is our first full day at the center. I have a lot of reflecting to do tonight. These are the moments that define whether one chooses to make a difference or not.
I am really starting to miss everyone soooo much!
The Adventures Continue
Hello Family, Friends & Followers --
I am currently sitting here at 10:30 pm on Sunday night at the Wadadee House. It seems surreal that the past few days in Etosha National Park actually occurred, let alone the fact that I'm sitting in Windhoek, Namibia. We seriously haven't stopped traveling since we've been here (Tuesday in New York, Wednesday in Johannesburg, Thursday in Katutura, Friday at the Okaukuejo Lodge and Saturday at the Namutoni Lodge) but tonight we begin to settle into the reason we are here: teaching and assisting at BNC.
This weekend was incredible. Sorry Animal Kingdom, but you've got nothing on a real Africa safari. Disney's magic can't hold a candle to seeing elephants bathe, fight and play with each other in a natural watering hole or a rhino drinking from a watering hole at night only a few blocks from the tent you are sleeping in (yes, we slept in tents for the past two nights).
Two more incredible sights to see are often forgotten back home. A sunset seems to be more celebrated when someone is traveling away from home. And stars are often looked at briefly when one is checking to see if it's a cloudy night. However, in Namibia the strong sun sets beautifully over the desert land, and the starts fill the sky completely. I've never seen more stars in my life. And here we get to see stars and constellations that you don't see in the Northern Hemisphere.
We stopped along the way to and from Etosha in a few towns. The German influence is very heavy in some, while others tend to have a more traditional Namibian feel. Today in Okahandja we stopped to barter with locals to buy original Africa crafts.
Tomorrow, tomorrow, tomorrow! The brief hour on Thursday at BNC definitely put this trip in perspective. I can't wait to return tomorrow and actually work with my friends and professors in educating ourselves and these students. It's mind blowing to know that the next week and a half will change my life as a person and as a teacher in ways I can't imagine tonight.
Goodnight followers. Tomorrow the real adventure begins.
-- Danny
Goodmorning Namibia!
4:15am Wake-Up 6/3/2011
And the gang is off to Etosha National Park bright and early! We stopped twice along the 5 hour drive to get snacks and use the restrooms. Our 5 hour trip actually turned into a 7 hour adventure when our tour guide had to stop to buy groceries and camping equipment for the weekend. We all got to enjoy the goods of a local German bakery that had a pretty garden and sitting area in the back and we all thought it felt nice to finally sit somewhere outside of a bus or plane for a few minutes. While we were at the bakery, Becca and I sat in front and people watched as if we were still in NYC. It's so much more exciting here!
As Dr. Nicholson stated at our first reflection tonight, everyone did a outstanding job with practicing patience despite our exhaustion from traveling so much in the past week.
Once we arrived at our first campsite at Etosha, we took a walk over to a big watering hole where we observed the delicate silence of nature, the beauty of my observations in this moment left me speechless. A heard of zebras waded into the water. This was NOT the Bronx Zoo! After lunch around 2:30pm we were off on our safari bus into the wild! No more than 30 seconds into the drive we spotted a giraffe about 20-30ft to the right of our bus. We saw birds of all kinds, zebras, Spring Bok, zebras, an ostrich, and more zebras!
The sky was a beautiful blue and clear all day long until the early sunset at around 5:30pm. We got to walk to the top of a tall stone tower in the middle of our campsite to watch the sun set. Once the sun went down it was very cold and everyone was bundled up sitting around the campfire. George prepared a great dinner with his cousin; slow roasted lamb, garlic bread, potatoes, and veggies. Mmmm Mmmm I have a feeling that will be the BNM(Best Namibian Meal) we eat while we're here.
Christina and I are sharing a tent and are crossing our fingers and praying that we do not get eaten by any wild animals tonight. Namibia is such a beautiful place that realized I didn't mind the long drive today at all, it was nothing like driving down the parkway-trust me, I have pictures to prove it!
And the gang is off to Etosha National Park bright and early! We stopped twice along the 5 hour drive to get snacks and use the restrooms. Our 5 hour trip actually turned into a 7 hour adventure when our tour guide had to stop to buy groceries and camping equipment for the weekend. We all got to enjoy the goods of a local German bakery that had a pretty garden and sitting area in the back and we all thought it felt nice to finally sit somewhere outside of a bus or plane for a few minutes. While we were at the bakery, Becca and I sat in front and people watched as if we were still in NYC. It's so much more exciting here!
As Dr. Nicholson stated at our first reflection tonight, everyone did a outstanding job with practicing patience despite our exhaustion from traveling so much in the past week.
Once we arrived at our first campsite at Etosha, we took a walk over to a big watering hole where we observed the delicate silence of nature, the beauty of my observations in this moment left me speechless. A heard of zebras waded into the water. This was NOT the Bronx Zoo! After lunch around 2:30pm we were off on our safari bus into the wild! No more than 30 seconds into the drive we spotted a giraffe about 20-30ft to the right of our bus. We saw birds of all kinds, zebras, Spring Bok, zebras, an ostrich, and more zebras!
The sky was a beautiful blue and clear all day long until the early sunset at around 5:30pm. We got to walk to the top of a tall stone tower in the middle of our campsite to watch the sun set. Once the sun went down it was very cold and everyone was bundled up sitting around the campfire. George prepared a great dinner with his cousin; slow roasted lamb, garlic bread, potatoes, and veggies. Mmmm Mmmm I have a feeling that will be the BNM(Best Namibian Meal) we eat while we're here.
Christina and I are sharing a tent and are crossing our fingers and praying that we do not get eaten by any wild animals tonight. Namibia is such a beautiful place that realized I didn't mind the long drive today at all, it was nothing like driving down the parkway-trust me, I have pictures to prove it!
Back from Safari!
We just got back from an amazing weekend at Etosha National Park in northern Namibia. It was a long bus ride from Windhoek to the park, but the journey was absolutely worth it. Our amazing tour guide, George, was one of the wisest and most knowledgable men I have ever met! He knew everything about everything from the history of Namibia to detailed information about each animal to easily locating constellations (and OH MY GOD were the stars amazing out there-- no city lights or pollution to block our view... we could easily see the entire Milky Way). Mom and Dad, you'll be proud... we slept out in tents every night and our food was cooked over a fire. It was a true adventure... I tapped into my wilderness side :) We saw giraffes, elephants, zebras, wildebeests, impalas, dik-diks, springboks, and rhinos. We kept our eyes peeled for lions the whole time but didn't have any luck. It was an amazing bonding experience for all of us to be out there together. I really feel so fortunate to be out here with such a great group of peers and faculty members... everyone gets along so well and we really mesh.
Sooooo after our amazing weekend we are back at the Wadadee House and prepping for our first full day at the centre tomorrow. I am incredibly excited to start working with the kids. We were only there for an hour last Thursday, but I already fell in love (sorry Mom, I know I promised you I wouldn't but I did. Don't worry... I'll still come home!) This is going to be such an amazing and rewarding experience. We have an orientation in the morning and the kids start arriving at about 1:30. We'll be in the classrooms for most of the afternoon, and will have some time outside too (soccer will be interesting... the kids are pros and I have two left feet...) Anyway, time to get some rest for our big day tomorrow. Here we go!!!
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