Today I spent quite a bit of time in Standard 1 (first grade) at Malemia School. Two of our RU students taught English lessons addressing several verbs, as well as colors and numbers. I was so proud of them, as all of the 120 children were actively engaged. The class had to break for feeding time. The children ran with their little cups in their hands to get a scoop of porridge. Several ate their porridge by sipping from their cups, while others used pencils, sticks, or their fingers to eat it. Some had even brought spoons from home. When they were finished, they shared their cups with older siblings. During porridge time, I was circled by a group of little first grade children, all very curiously smiling at me. I interacted with them by using some phrases I know they are familiar with, singing songs, and just smiling back. I even took a few pictures, which always prompts quite a stir. They like to see themselves in the camera after the pictures have been taken.
Following the porridge break, more teaching took place and then it was time for the students to “knock off” as they call it. Standard One children go home earlier than the other children, because they are younger. My RU students were trying to hang some pictures in the room but had difficulty doing so because the children did not want to leave. They crowded around them, wanting to see what they were doing. The crowd made it difficult for my RU students to accomplish their task. So, to help, I started chanting, “I am walking, I am walking, I am walking,” and I slowly walked out of the door. As I chanted, the children followed, repeating every word I said. When I walked them all out of the door, I started saying, “I am running, I am running, I am running,” and I started to run in a circle around the front area of the school. It was just like a scene from the Pied Piper. The children, as expected, followed along. Then, I changed to, “I am jumping….” to “I am dancing…..” to finally “I am sleeping….”. (I needed a rest). We repeated all of this several times, and then when I said, “I am sleeping” again, they all mimicked me, but I suppose they wanted more action, because a boy then started chanting, “I am dancing” and the whole thing started again, but with the children leading. It was a fun time for me, and I think they learned a few English words, too. I think I’m going to do it again tomorrow, but add more to it in an effort to build on each day. Ahhh, the little joys of working with these little ones!
Jonesy,
ReplyDeleteThank you for taking the time to keep us on the other side of the world in touch with you, the children, and Chibale. I have gone from tears, to laughter, to joy, to reflection throughout all of your posts. I know you are exhausted at the end of each day. You are such an amazing woman who I admire so much. Thank you for genuinely and intentionally exposing your thoughts and emotions.
Summer school began in Roanoke City. We are up against so many difficulties and yet it is nothing in comparison to Malemia students and their teachers (including you all). I can't wait to meet my group of kiddos on Tuesday. We are going to spend the first week getting to know one another, although we only have four weeks together (the same as you all have together). I am hoping to introduce them to other cultures, starting with Malawi. I look forward to the continued inspiration.
One first grade teacher recognized me today as "the girl who went to Africa" from speaking at the conference. Although that was nearly a year ago from an experience I had three years ago, it is still impacting myself and teachers here in the US. We are so connected in so many ways that we will never discover. Thank you, the Patti/y's and your students for the reminder in perspective in education, for the inspiration to do what is best for kids, and for building a reciprocal relationship with our brothers and sisters in far away lands.
Be safe, cherish each moment, and send my love and best wishes to all.
Jenny,
ReplyDeleteThank YOU for your kind commnents! I have so much to share with you. Ginny (remember the girl who didn't talk?) asked about you. She is talking now and confident. The teachers LOVED looked at the photos of your wedding, too. Alex is still Alex, along with the other boys. Miss having you here!!!