The Story Begins

Just finished my first day of classes!  You would be amazed by the sea of students that flow throughout the hallways all day.  There are constant assemblies that will have the kids filling entire courtyards until the next bell rings.  Even with this structure the school is a Hobbesian experiment.  I've been warned that the kids are unruly at times, and I caught a glimpse of this in the three classes I've already taught. 

My co-teachers here, which are the real Thai teachers that I help, are named Mrs. Panasawart and Mr. Waorawat.  Mrs. Panasawart, pronounced "Pah naa saw wat", is a very out going individual.  In class she's a disciplinarian as she needs to be, but with her coworkers she is gregarious and keeps your attention with a constant touch of the hand or shoulder.  She beams with energy constantly.  Yesterday after classes ended, she admitted to me that she's by nature a shy teacher, but if you saw the way she wrangles with the students you wouldn't agree with her assessment.  Sometimes we all need to rise to the occasion.  Mr. Waorawat, pronounced "Wahr O waht", is a much more stern man who looks like he could have graduated from St. Gabriels thirty years ago.  I can't comment too much on his personality yet for his reservation, but throughout the semester as I learn more about him I'll share.  

Teaching class is very hands on.  With both teachers they will go over the introduction to the chapter then turn it over to me for the exercises.  I call on students to read, correct their pronunciation, provide the correct answer, and explain each answer.  Another huge component is vocab throughout the readings.  Thank God I've always been interested in vocab myself!  It makes explaining words to the kids that much easier.  In my introduction to the class I stressed to the students the importance of being active during class and not fearing failure in their attempts.  I want to create a real sense of unity between all the students so no one will tease anyone else about their pronunciation or wrong answer.  I've also noticed their are several students who are ambitiously anxious to  learn more vocab.  Everything I saw my first day makes me excited for the year to come.

I've also been asking around for a Thai tutor for myself, so we'll see what comes of my inquiries in the week ahead.  I recently acquired a copy of a Thai language book from a returning teacher here, Nick, who I used to play pick up basketball with all the time back at Loyola.  It's funny where old contacts pop up after leaving Loyola.

I only have my flip video camera with me, so to follow will be some video from around my campus and the surrounding area.  

Thanks for reading 8^ )