5th graders rock!
I have an idea. I think that we should create a global counsel of fifth graders. This counsel should be elected not by adults, but by the fifth graders of every country. This counsel would be in charge of solving all of the world’s problems and disasters. The enthusiasm for which this counsel would attack the globe’s challenges, the creative solutions for which they would dream up and the smiles on their faces when they deliver their decisions would simply make Earth a much, much better place to live!
In addition to seeing my former students, I was scheduled to teach at Fujioka Elementary School during my vacation. Many teachers expressed regret for scheduling “work” during my visit. I must say that teaching English never felt like work to me, so I was delighted to have the chance to go back to the classroom again! I first taught a sixth grade class, and since they have just started their sixth grade year, they are still sweet and young and cute. But when those fifth graders marched in, I was in heaven! They are just bundles of positive energy, full of jokes, smiles, laughter and a rare eagerness to express themselves in English. (See the video below to catch a big of their spirit!)
I taught with Okamura Sensei who was a homeroom teacher during our elementary English program. She’s a lovely lady who really inspires her students to learn English. She put together a very simple lesson plan, one which provided the class with plenty of opportunity for one-on-one time with the special guest (me!). Boys and girls who raised their hands high shouting, “Me, please” “Yes, me” would quickly turn shy once they reached the front of the class and looked at my blue eyes. Their voices would soften, and many of their tiny little hands were wet with perspiration. It’s important to remember how few chances these kids have to speak directly with a foreigner. It’s a big deal for them, and I am always sensitive to how nervous they get. And I’m always so proud when they make it through the conversation!
After we practiced self-introductions and had some q&a time (mostly “Do you like ~” because that was easiest for them to remember), we played Simon Says. Usually this game is used for practicing the names of body parts. But students at this age are so competitive. If I said “Touch your ears,” any student who did so would have to sit down and they would be “out” of the game. Very cut throat! The last five students standing got a prize…wither a colorful folder or my business card. You’d be surprised how many chose the business card!
I’m so passionate about 11 year olds. What an amazing age group! They are so positive and peppy and they are SO MUCH FUN!!! I wish I could do that everyday of my life!!! It was refreshing to re-live it for a brief moment!
These are a few super cute 5th grade girls who were very eager to chat and shake hands and give hugs. They were so sweet and adorable!
Tags: culture, inspiration, JET Program, teaching
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