Ok, so we’ve entered the next phase of breaking down my defenses. I’ve conquered so many uncomfortable situations (like going to bars by myself) but tomorrow will be a test…singing and dancing. I don’t know why I have such a hard time singing and dancing in front of 20 four year olds, but it just isn’t my thing. I know it’s a good way for them to learn, which is why I’m going to cave and do it, but it makes me very uncomfortable. The teachers in the infantil have requested that I bring some songs…so here we go…
I earned 22 extra euros today in private lessons (and that’s skipping one of my normal lessons). Heck yes!
I still feel lost when it comes to discipline in the classroom. I don’t know how to gain respect and control in the classroom and it’s starting to wear on me. Most of the time I try to prepare lessons I think the kids will like and want to participate in, but it always seems to go array. I always feel better after going to the gym (although I’ll be even happier when I can go to the gym when it is light out and isn’t so cold).
Showing posts with label private lessons. Show all posts
Showing posts with label private lessons. Show all posts
Monday, January 24, 2011
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Busy, busy, busy
Leave it to me to turn the peaceful, tranquil Spanish lifestyle into a race against the clock. My schedule is packed. I feel like I’m running all day long. I went from having SO much free time during Christmas break to being super busy overnight.
Today I had classes at the infantil all day. I almost had to teach the 5 year olds by myself but luckily Sebas showed up. I don’t mind that I have to plan lessons…but planning a lesson with 30-45 minutes notice? My lesson planning abilities aren’t THAT strong. The teachers were telling me during recess that I need to talk more. This has been an interesting challenge to try and overcome. I totally understand where they are coming from…I am after all an “auxiliary de CONVERSACIÓN (conversation).” It’s hard to incorporate myself into lessons that I didn’t plan. There’s always a place for me, but not really to talk very much, especially if the kids are working on a worksheet or some other quieter activity. I’ll have to think of what I can do.
After classes I went home to do the incredible amount of dishes that have accumulated. Luckily my private lesson cancelled because he’s sick and I got to take a nap.
At 6:30 I had my intercambio with Pacolmo and then I ran to the gym at the very last minute to squeeze in a quick workout (9-10pm). Tuesdays and Thursdays are the days that are hardest for me to get to the gym. If I leave the intercambio at 8:15 or 8:30pm it’s usually ok…I have time to walk to the gym and at least get a decent chunk of my workout done. I never want to be rude though, or seem like I’m in a rush to get out of there though, so frequently I’m at Paco’s house until 8:45 or 9.
Now I need to get my lessons planned, my blog updated, my books read…the list of things I was hoping to accomplish while I’m here has barely been touched. I can’t believe I’ve already been here 3 months. How can it already be halfway through January?!
Today I had classes at the infantil all day. I almost had to teach the 5 year olds by myself but luckily Sebas showed up. I don’t mind that I have to plan lessons…but planning a lesson with 30-45 minutes notice? My lesson planning abilities aren’t THAT strong. The teachers were telling me during recess that I need to talk more. This has been an interesting challenge to try and overcome. I totally understand where they are coming from…I am after all an “auxiliary de CONVERSACIÓN (conversation).” It’s hard to incorporate myself into lessons that I didn’t plan. There’s always a place for me, but not really to talk very much, especially if the kids are working on a worksheet or some other quieter activity. I’ll have to think of what I can do.
After classes I went home to do the incredible amount of dishes that have accumulated. Luckily my private lesson cancelled because he’s sick and I got to take a nap.
At 6:30 I had my intercambio with Pacolmo and then I ran to the gym at the very last minute to squeeze in a quick workout (9-10pm). Tuesdays and Thursdays are the days that are hardest for me to get to the gym. If I leave the intercambio at 8:15 or 8:30pm it’s usually ok…I have time to walk to the gym and at least get a decent chunk of my workout done. I never want to be rude though, or seem like I’m in a rush to get out of there though, so frequently I’m at Paco’s house until 8:45 or 9.
Now I need to get my lessons planned, my blog updated, my books read…the list of things I was hoping to accomplish while I’m here has barely been touched. I can’t believe I’ve already been here 3 months. How can it already be halfway through January?!
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