At the beginning of today's business meeting, the head teacher, Toshi, said, "we achieved, "the spirits" this month again! We have been covering it six consecutive months, which is really good!"
...I need to explain. The language school I work for is a private school, so we have to make a profit. Every school branch is supposed to cover the branch's expense and the head quarter's one because the headquarter doesn't make a profit. The aim is called "achieving the spirits" (in my school term.) But you know, it is very hard to make a good profit all the time!
However, our school branch usually can do it. "Therefore," Toshi smiled, "The project leader of the headquarters calls us, "the cult group!""
We laughed to hear that, but it might be true.
All of my branch's stuff, especially the head teacher, Toshi, and the manager, Rie, are really PERSISTENT to achieve the spirit. It may sound dirty because achieving the spirit means making much money... But whenever I see they are talking with students, I couldn't stop admiring them.
Their consulting is really courteous, kind, careful, and friendly! That's why many students decide to take more classes, and buy our special study materials.
Actually, some college students are applying for the job at our school!
Two foreign teachers and me have been "involved" by Toshi and Rie.
I am only one part time teacher who always attends business meetings, so sometimes I feel "Do I have to do that? I am a part time teacher, so I don't get paid mostly except for teaching classes..." But whenever I saw their "spirits(literally!,) I was like infected their passion.
I strongly think the keys of successful business is communication of co-workers.
Toshi and Rie are really good people, and good at "praising" us.
Especially, Toshi often says to me,"Since you came to the school, we have achieved the spirits! You are our lucky girl!" or "What a great work! You are a REAL PRO!" etc, etc, so I have been flattered and encouraged to work...
But it's good! I can learn a lot from my co-workers. There are no envy, meanness, and distrust among us. There are passion, friendship, and especially, sense of humor! Our business meetings are always fulled with laughing.
...By the way, do you remember the mother of my private junior high student, whom I refereed in the "guarantee" article? Yes! The one who said to me, "Can you guarantee my son is going to pass the second grade of EIKEN next year?"
I didn't expect she would come back. I rather thought, "Yeah! Then, I can go back home earlier on Monday!( His class is the last class of Monday)"
...But, she decided to let the son continue my private lesson!
She said to Rie, "I'll leave my son to Keiko sensei!"
...I am haunted by another cult!?? That is scary!!!
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Can't stop talking
I had a new member of my semi-private class today. His name is Takumi, who is a freshman of a prestigious college. Yes, he is new in MY class, but he is quite familiar in my school. Because he is always around us!!!
He thinks of us as if his friends. He can't communicate longer with native English speaker teachers,, so Toshi (our head teacher) and me are tend to be his targets.
He is innocent, but sometimes it's very annoying (sorry ) to be caught by his loooong talking!
I always felt sorry to see Toshi had to keep talking with him. But tonight, I started to be "his" teacher because his level went up and happened to enter my class...so I almost "had to" be caught by him.
He is a cute & good boy, but... I was about to tell him.
"Listen, kid! It's already 10:00pm (The class was over at 9:00pm) and it takes one hour from here to my home. I have a husband who is waiting for me, and I have to wake up at 7:00am tomorrow to make his breakfast. I DON'T HAVE TIME TO listen to your school test and your former dreams,whatsoever!! GO HOME!!"
...Of course I didn't say so...
During his talk, I slipped out of the office pretending I had some business.
I was successful to leave school finally, but Toshi was still talking with him.
Toshi is an enthusiastic head teacher, so he was trying to connect his meaningless talking to "sales talk." Look at him! But I am not in.
Actually, there are some college students are like Takumi.
Do you know how working people are busy?
You'll know in a few years!!!
He thinks of us as if his friends. He can't communicate longer with native English speaker teachers,, so Toshi (our head teacher) and me are tend to be his targets.
He is innocent, but sometimes it's very annoying (sorry ) to be caught by his loooong talking!
I always felt sorry to see Toshi had to keep talking with him. But tonight, I started to be "his" teacher because his level went up and happened to enter my class...so I almost "had to" be caught by him.
He is a cute & good boy, but... I was about to tell him.
"Listen, kid! It's already 10:00pm (The class was over at 9:00pm) and it takes one hour from here to my home. I have a husband who is waiting for me, and I have to wake up at 7:00am tomorrow to make his breakfast. I DON'T HAVE TIME TO listen to your school test and your former dreams,whatsoever!! GO HOME!!"
...Of course I didn't say so...
During his talk, I slipped out of the office pretending I had some business.
I was successful to leave school finally, but Toshi was still talking with him.
Toshi is an enthusiastic head teacher, so he was trying to connect his meaningless talking to "sales talk." Look at him! But I am not in.
Actually, there are some college students are like Takumi.
Do you know how working people are busy?
You'll know in a few years!!!
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Fresh
When I just got school (the secondary one) today, I found an unfamiliar co-worker. Ans as soon as I noticed...she is FRESH!
Because she looked awkward and making many photocopies of textbooks.
I was correct! When she noticed me, she said that with loud voice. "Hello, I'm Yoko! I just started to work here today. It's nice to meet you! "
Wow! Welcome! It's been five months I started to work for this school, and it's first time to meet someone who is "newer" than me!!
Actually, she would take over my classes. For some reasons, I will teach another classes, and she will teach mines. Therefore, she observed my classes.
Hahn! Being observed by a new teacher!! I am supposed to have much responsibility! She just finished new teachers' trainings. She observed "special" trainers' demo lessons. But they are so special that there are many discrepancies from "ordinary" teachers' classes!!
My classes went on well, but...when I said to Yoko, "please introduce yourself!"
She said,"Hello! I just started to work here. I used to teach kids, but it's first time to teach adults. So, I am nervous right now, but I'll do my best! Please help me!"
.........
.........
DON'T SAY THAT!!
"new" and "nervous" are banned words for teachers! It's OK to say that to co-workers, but our students might think, "What? She is inexperienced!? Do you know how much money I invested your classes?? I don't come here to help YOU!"
When I started the job, some mothers of kids' classes tried to pry my background of teaching. I just said, "Well, teaching KIDS AS A PRO is the first time for me..."
I tried to speak ambiguously. I didn't lie! But it sounded like, "I have experiences to teach ADULTS AS A PRO, and teach kids AS A VOLUNTEER."
Both of them are not true, but "Making myself LOOK LIKE a pro" is also important!
However, she was really working hard to talk with students and learning how to teach. Also, what I was surprised was the fact...she is older than me!!
She looked totally "a fresh teacher," so I believed she was quite younger than me.
And that remind of me when I just started to do this job.
I have never looked, "a new teacher!" I was asked by my co-workers, "so, which branch did you teach before?"
...That I don't look a "fresh" one means I look older???
Because she looked awkward and making many photocopies of textbooks.
I was correct! When she noticed me, she said that with loud voice. "Hello, I'm Yoko! I just started to work here today. It's nice to meet you! "
Wow! Welcome! It's been five months I started to work for this school, and it's first time to meet someone who is "newer" than me!!
Actually, she would take over my classes. For some reasons, I will teach another classes, and she will teach mines. Therefore, she observed my classes.
Hahn! Being observed by a new teacher!! I am supposed to have much responsibility! She just finished new teachers' trainings. She observed "special" trainers' demo lessons. But they are so special that there are many discrepancies from "ordinary" teachers' classes!!
My classes went on well, but...when I said to Yoko, "please introduce yourself!"
She said,"Hello! I just started to work here. I used to teach kids, but it's first time to teach adults. So, I am nervous right now, but I'll do my best! Please help me!"
.........
.........
DON'T SAY THAT!!
"new" and "nervous" are banned words for teachers! It's OK to say that to co-workers, but our students might think, "What? She is inexperienced!? Do you know how much money I invested your classes?? I don't come here to help YOU!"
When I started the job, some mothers of kids' classes tried to pry my background of teaching. I just said, "Well, teaching KIDS AS A PRO is the first time for me..."
I tried to speak ambiguously. I didn't lie! But it sounded like, "I have experiences to teach ADULTS AS A PRO, and teach kids AS A VOLUNTEER."
Both of them are not true, but "Making myself LOOK LIKE a pro" is also important!
However, she was really working hard to talk with students and learning how to teach. Also, what I was surprised was the fact...she is older than me!!
She looked totally "a fresh teacher," so I believed she was quite younger than me.
And that remind of me when I just started to do this job.
I have never looked, "a new teacher!" I was asked by my co-workers, "so, which branch did you teach before?"
...That I don't look a "fresh" one means I look older???
Monday, October 27, 2008
Guarantee
A few days ago, the manager, Rie, told me, "Your private student, Mamoru, his mother wants to talk with you on Monday. This Monday is supposed to be the last lesson for him, but she might want to renew your classes. Please talk with her!"
Mamoru is 13 years old, but he is aiming to pass the pre-second grade of EIKEN. The level of this grade is "about one who graduates junior high school." Therefore, it means his English is very good! Maybe it's because he is a returnee. But he didn't live in an English-speaking country. Also, he is not a Japanese. Therefore?? his mother is VERY, VERY eager to make him a multilingual boy!
After his lesson, his mother was waiting for me.
Just after customary greetings, she eyed on me saying, "So, what do you think about my son? Do you think my son will pass the second grade of EIKEN next year?"
...I was at a loss for an answer. Mamoru just took the EIKEN last week, and he is on the border. I predict he will fail it because his score needs one more to pass it. But I think he will be successful next year! But so far, his goal is "the pre-second grade."
Why is she talking about the second grade???
She continued talking, "I know he is on the border now to pass the pre-second grade.
But I set his goal is "to pass the pre-second grade when he is 7th grade, and to pass the second grade in 8th grade. Can you guarantee him if he continues taking your lessons?"
...Then, I understood what kind of "talk" this is!
"Well, I can't guarantee. But I'll do my best to help him." I was trying to "do my best" tp talk with HER...
The mother was still being aggressive, " I understand if you can't guarantee. But you know, taking private lessons here is very expensive, so we need some incentives. There are some cram schools specified for EIKEN. Should we go there or continue your lessons?"
...Well, I recommend you to go to one of the EIKEN cram schools! Because this is an English conversation school. I am not be trained to teach EIKEN!
...I said that in my mind, but of course I didn't say it to the mother. If I did it, I can't be guaranteed to keep my job!!
"...Let's see, I think private lesson is best for him because he is much smarter than other kids. To pass a test, there are two important things. One is to analyze former questions of the test, and the other is to overcome your week points. I guarantee I can cover those for him."
"...OK. We will think about it, and contact you."
Still, PRICING me, the mother and Mamoru left the school.
What was going on here!! If you want to be guaranteed to pass the test, just work harder and harder by yourself! Going a language school doesn't mean the school "enchants" you to make your English perfect!!
If I keep this idea, I will not be guaranteed to be a good teacher? I don't know!!!
Mamoru is 13 years old, but he is aiming to pass the pre-second grade of EIKEN. The level of this grade is "about one who graduates junior high school." Therefore, it means his English is very good! Maybe it's because he is a returnee. But he didn't live in an English-speaking country. Also, he is not a Japanese. Therefore?? his mother is VERY, VERY eager to make him a multilingual boy!
After his lesson, his mother was waiting for me.
Just after customary greetings, she eyed on me saying, "So, what do you think about my son? Do you think my son will pass the second grade of EIKEN next year?"
...I was at a loss for an answer. Mamoru just took the EIKEN last week, and he is on the border. I predict he will fail it because his score needs one more to pass it. But I think he will be successful next year! But so far, his goal is "the pre-second grade."
Why is she talking about the second grade???
She continued talking, "I know he is on the border now to pass the pre-second grade.
But I set his goal is "to pass the pre-second grade when he is 7th grade, and to pass the second grade in 8th grade. Can you guarantee him if he continues taking your lessons?"
...Then, I understood what kind of "talk" this is!
"Well, I can't guarantee. But I'll do my best to help him." I was trying to "do my best" tp talk with HER...
The mother was still being aggressive, " I understand if you can't guarantee. But you know, taking private lessons here is very expensive, so we need some incentives. There are some cram schools specified for EIKEN. Should we go there or continue your lessons?"
...Well, I recommend you to go to one of the EIKEN cram schools! Because this is an English conversation school. I am not be trained to teach EIKEN!
...I said that in my mind, but of course I didn't say it to the mother. If I did it, I can't be guaranteed to keep my job!!
"...Let's see, I think private lesson is best for him because he is much smarter than other kids. To pass a test, there are two important things. One is to analyze former questions of the test, and the other is to overcome your week points. I guarantee I can cover those for him."
"...OK. We will think about it, and contact you."
Still, PRICING me, the mother and Mamoru left the school.
What was going on here!! If you want to be guaranteed to pass the test, just work harder and harder by yourself! Going a language school doesn't mean the school "enchants" you to make your English perfect!!
If I keep this idea, I will not be guaranteed to be a good teacher? I don't know!!!
Stinky house?
In the United States, my hubby bought some clothes from Abercrombie&Fitch. http://www.abercrombie.com/anf/lifestyles/html/homepage.html
We used to buy the clothes sometimes when we lived in America.
However, this time, we could feel the difference.
"Didn't their clothes leave the strong perfume...??"
Every store of the Abercrombie&Fitch, we can smell their original perfume.
This brand is completely for young people, so whenever my hubby stepped into the store, he used to say, "Wow! It's noisy & stinky!"
Explanation: noisy means their loud club music. Stinky means their original perfume.
They are supposed to "cool" for American young people!
That is to say, this time, the "perfume" (as my hubby, "stinky" one) left much longer & stronger when we lived in the United States.
Why...?? Maybe, our condo, I mean Japanese houses are much "air tighter" than American houses!
When we lived in the uU.S, we realized it because our house (and also other American houses) had many "gaps...." We didn't feel cold or hot because the central air conditioning system worked harder. But whenever we saw some insects were coming and going freely from the gaps, we couldn't stop feeling how Americans' carpenter jobs were easy-going.
Because we live in a nice & new condo in JAPAN now...my hubby had to scream, "Wow! It's still STINKY here!!"
We used to buy the clothes sometimes when we lived in America.
However, this time, we could feel the difference.
"Didn't their clothes leave the strong perfume...??"
Every store of the Abercrombie&Fitch, we can smell their original perfume.
This brand is completely for young people, so whenever my hubby stepped into the store, he used to say, "Wow! It's noisy & stinky!"
Explanation: noisy means their loud club music. Stinky means their original perfume.
They are supposed to "cool" for American young people!
That is to say, this time, the "perfume" (as my hubby, "stinky" one) left much longer & stronger when we lived in the United States.
Why...?? Maybe, our condo, I mean Japanese houses are much "air tighter" than American houses!
When we lived in the uU.S, we realized it because our house (and also other American houses) had many "gaps...." We didn't feel cold or hot because the central air conditioning system worked harder. But whenever we saw some insects were coming and going freely from the gaps, we couldn't stop feeling how Americans' carpenter jobs were easy-going.
Because we live in a nice & new condo in JAPAN now...my hubby had to scream, "Wow! It's still STINKY here!!"
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Volunteer
Today is my school's Halloween party. This party is for only kids!
I intended to go there, and I bought a costume. I became a WITCH today.
However, part time teachers don't get paid for this kind of party things.
The school says, "we provide food and drinks. Our students have to pay for those, but you don't have to. Therefore, we offset!!"
It is OK for me, so I skipped lunch ( I ate brunch, though) , and went to school at this evening.
But, as a result, there was no food and drink at all in this party!
That's because it's a kids party, I had to take many kids along in the school and played games with them. I was pulled my hair and costume by energetic children...I was exhausted!!
Maybe, other part time teachers are smart enough? to predict this situation. They didn't come! Today, I was a totally volunteer.
However, I think I had a good day today.
My kids seemed to glad to meet me, as a witch. They (including saucy girls) said "I want to have a picture taken with Keiko sensei!" That was cute.
I noticed my most handful boy, Mamoru, who is in my 4-5 years old class, is not only "the most troublesome boy in my classes," but also "the most troublesome boy in my school( among 50 kids students!)" Other teachers were really puzzled what to do with him! However, after the party, his mother was late to come back school to pick him up.
Having noticed that, he started to cry, saying, "Keiko sensei! Keiko sensei!"
That was also cute.
I know today's Halloween party was "the mandatory work which is called "voluntary."
Whatever job you are involved, whichever community you belong, you should do this kind of jobs sometimes. Right?
I hope today's Halloween party becomes a good memory for the kids!
...While I was struggling with disguised energetic children, my hubby came back safe from America!
Before he left, I handed him "a souvenir list."
I wrote a lot on the list, but I said, "I know you will be really busy in this business trip.
So, of course you don't have to buy everything! This is my "wish list." If you find some on the list coincidentally, please get them. But you don't have to take your time!"
...However, he bought everything on my list VOLUNTARILY! Thanks, sweetie!!
Also, my friends who are still living in Lafayette, the city I used to live, left him nice souvenirs "voluntarily" to me. Thank you, Miki chan!! Thank you, Kumiko san!!
...You know, it's a good day to me!
I intended to go there, and I bought a costume. I became a WITCH today.
However, part time teachers don't get paid for this kind of party things.
The school says, "we provide food and drinks. Our students have to pay for those, but you don't have to. Therefore, we offset!!"
It is OK for me, so I skipped lunch ( I ate brunch, though) , and went to school at this evening.
But, as a result, there was no food and drink at all in this party!
That's because it's a kids party, I had to take many kids along in the school and played games with them. I was pulled my hair and costume by energetic children...I was exhausted!!
Maybe, other part time teachers are smart enough? to predict this situation. They didn't come! Today, I was a totally volunteer.
However, I think I had a good day today.
My kids seemed to glad to meet me, as a witch. They (including saucy girls) said "I want to have a picture taken with Keiko sensei!" That was cute.
I noticed my most handful boy, Mamoru, who is in my 4-5 years old class, is not only "the most troublesome boy in my classes," but also "the most troublesome boy in my school( among 50 kids students!)" Other teachers were really puzzled what to do with him! However, after the party, his mother was late to come back school to pick him up.
Having noticed that, he started to cry, saying, "Keiko sensei! Keiko sensei!"
That was also cute.
I know today's Halloween party was "the mandatory work which is called "voluntary."
Whatever job you are involved, whichever community you belong, you should do this kind of jobs sometimes. Right?
I hope today's Halloween party becomes a good memory for the kids!
...While I was struggling with disguised energetic children, my hubby came back safe from America!
Before he left, I handed him "a souvenir list."
I wrote a lot on the list, but I said, "I know you will be really busy in this business trip.
So, of course you don't have to buy everything! This is my "wish list." If you find some on the list coincidentally, please get them. But you don't have to take your time!"
...However, he bought everything on my list VOLUNTARILY! Thanks, sweetie!!
Also, my friends who are still living in Lafayette, the city I used to live, left him nice souvenirs "voluntarily" to me. Thank you, Miki chan!! Thank you, Kumiko san!!
...You know, it's a good day to me!
Karma
It's TGIF(Thank God, It's Friday!) today.
I had a great time with Mayu, my best friend...but I'm sorry, Mayu!
I'm going to write another thing because now It's on my mind most, unfortunately!!
That is...Skype! I was supposed to start English lessons with my tutor(when I was in the U.S,) Sally, by Skype. However, I've been busy with work, so I hadn't made appointment.
A week ago, I finally contacted Sally and made an appointment.
I should set Skype properly before our first session (this coming Thursday!), but...my web camera doesn't work!!
I have to admit the fact, "I am a computer illiterate." In this technology-advanced world, computer illiterate people are like fossil... I know, I know!
I should've worked hard to acquire the skill, but I just leave those work to my hubby, co-workers, or friends.
Right now, I am getting the "karma."
I can't set up Skype, which everybody says "Oh! It's quite easy! ANYONE can set it up!" If you can't count me on "anyone," who am I??
I will call the costumer center tomorrow and see how it goes.
Maybe, no definitely, I am luckier now even in this situation than I was in America.
When I had a computer problem and called the costumer center, I got a "double punch" from an operator. I had no idea what he was talking about, from context and English itself!
Oops, but right now, somebody help me with the Skype thing...
I had a great time with Mayu, my best friend...but I'm sorry, Mayu!
I'm going to write another thing because now It's on my mind most, unfortunately!!
That is...Skype! I was supposed to start English lessons with my tutor(when I was in the U.S,) Sally, by Skype. However, I've been busy with work, so I hadn't made appointment.
A week ago, I finally contacted Sally and made an appointment.
I should set Skype properly before our first session (this coming Thursday!), but...my web camera doesn't work!!
I have to admit the fact, "I am a computer illiterate." In this technology-advanced world, computer illiterate people are like fossil... I know, I know!
I should've worked hard to acquire the skill, but I just leave those work to my hubby, co-workers, or friends.
Right now, I am getting the "karma."
I can't set up Skype, which everybody says "Oh! It's quite easy! ANYONE can set it up!" If you can't count me on "anyone," who am I??
I will call the costumer center tomorrow and see how it goes.
Maybe, no definitely, I am luckier now even in this situation than I was in America.
When I had a computer problem and called the costumer center, I got a "double punch" from an operator. I had no idea what he was talking about, from context and English itself!
Oops, but right now, somebody help me with the Skype thing...
Friday, October 24, 2008
Disposition
In my classes, sometimes I teach "how to describe people in English."
Myself? I am clumsy...and, I realized another disposition of mine. Even though I'd already noticed it...
Two days ago, on the way from work, I was in front of my condo.
My condo has an automatic security system, so I need to screen my room key on it whenever I enter my condo.
But, on the day, the security system didn't work. I mean, the door didn't open.
"What is happening?" I screened my key again and again. Yes, my room key...
NO! It's not my key! Actually, I screened "SUIKA (a commuter pass)" on the security system! No wonder it didn't work...
At that time, I thought "Gosh! I'm tired!"
Yesterday, on the way from work again, I screened my key to enter my condo.
The door didn't open, again... "What's wrong with the security system?"
No! The security system is fine! I screened my commuter pass again, instead of my room key!
I said to myself, "Oh, clap! I'm stupid!"
...And, today. Do you already guess the punch line??
The door of my condo didn't open again, even though I screened my room key...
NOOOO!!! The commuter pass, again!!
...I couldn't stop laughing at me. "Yap, I know! I'm HOPELESSLY stupid!!"
So...my dispositions are...clumsy, and "hopelessly" stupid.
Do you buy me? It's a true story!!
Myself? I am clumsy...and, I realized another disposition of mine. Even though I'd already noticed it...
Two days ago, on the way from work, I was in front of my condo.
My condo has an automatic security system, so I need to screen my room key on it whenever I enter my condo.
But, on the day, the security system didn't work. I mean, the door didn't open.
"What is happening?" I screened my key again and again. Yes, my room key...
NO! It's not my key! Actually, I screened "SUIKA (a commuter pass)" on the security system! No wonder it didn't work...
At that time, I thought "Gosh! I'm tired!"
Yesterday, on the way from work again, I screened my key to enter my condo.
The door didn't open, again... "What's wrong with the security system?"
No! The security system is fine! I screened my commuter pass again, instead of my room key!
I said to myself, "Oh, clap! I'm stupid!"
...And, today. Do you already guess the punch line??
The door of my condo didn't open again, even though I screened my room key...
NOOOO!!! The commuter pass, again!!
...I couldn't stop laughing at me. "Yap, I know! I'm HOPELESSLY stupid!!"
So...my dispositions are...clumsy, and "hopelessly" stupid.
Do you buy me? It's a true story!!
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Emergency Call
Frankly speaking, lately, I often call the headquarters of my school.
For what? To ask some advice about teaching kids classes!!
My school has a wonderful training program for new teachers. At the training, trainers said, "Call us every time when you have questions! We're glad to talk with you!"
But, I knew they were really busy people, and I wanted to find solutions by myself
So I didn't contact them.
However, my concern for teaching the 4-5 years old class has been getting bigger. I often write about them here, so you may know... I had no idea what to teach the "wild kids," so lately, I make an "emergency call" to a kids' English trainer, Toko, almost every week.
What I admire her is...she always "welcomes" my annoying(might be) calls.
Whenever she takes the phone, she says,
"Hi! Keiko sensei! I'm glad you call! How was the last lesson?"
Then, she gives helpful advice.
Even though you get your dream job, nobody can be a "real pro" right after you start the job. I am a teacher, but I also have my "teachers." Teachers at my school, trainers of the head quarters, and of course English teachers while I was in the U.S...
I shouldn't forget I "have been raising" by them.
For what? To ask some advice about teaching kids classes!!
My school has a wonderful training program for new teachers. At the training, trainers said, "Call us every time when you have questions! We're glad to talk with you!"
But, I knew they were really busy people, and I wanted to find solutions by myself
So I didn't contact them.
However, my concern for teaching the 4-5 years old class has been getting bigger. I often write about them here, so you may know... I had no idea what to teach the "wild kids," so lately, I make an "emergency call" to a kids' English trainer, Toko, almost every week.
What I admire her is...she always "welcomes" my annoying(might be) calls.
Whenever she takes the phone, she says,
"Hi! Keiko sensei! I'm glad you call! How was the last lesson?"
Then, she gives helpful advice.
Even though you get your dream job, nobody can be a "real pro" right after you start the job. I am a teacher, but I also have my "teachers." Teachers at my school, trainers of the head quarters, and of course English teachers while I was in the U.S...
I shouldn't forget I "have been raising" by them.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Safety Net
During the break of my evening classes, I noticed a text message on my cell.
That was from my mom. She wrote, "Hi! Are you OK? I know Tom(my hubby) has been away for a business trip. Are you OK being alone?"
After work, I immediately called her. "Don't worry! I'm pretty fine!"
I got home, and started to prepare dinner, watching a video of my favorite TV show.
Then, my cell phone rang... That was from my aunt.
"Hey! Are you OK with being alone? How is Tom in America?"
I AM OK!! My hubby is OK? I don't know! He is supposed to be OK because I haven't gotten any message. He went to the U.S. on last Sunday, saying, "I will be very busy during the trip, so I won't call you unless something bad happens!"
I told my aunt so.
Usually, my mom and aunt don't call me often. But when my hubby is away from home, they feel they are like my "safety net." I appreciate that, but actually...I'm pretty comfortable being alone!
When I just got married, I always invited my friend, and had her sleepover at my house when my hubby went to a business trip.
However, now, I grew up enough to enjoy "being alone"? and I realized I have many things to do in my free time. And now, I'm just busy with work!
Maybe, it's really good for me to "enjoy being alone" and "have a place to go, and people to meet." But surely, "having my hubby back safely" is the best thing!
Yes, just himself...and some souvenirs...
Am I nagging at him???
That was from my mom. She wrote, "Hi! Are you OK? I know Tom(my hubby) has been away for a business trip. Are you OK being alone?"
After work, I immediately called her. "Don't worry! I'm pretty fine!"
I got home, and started to prepare dinner, watching a video of my favorite TV show.
Then, my cell phone rang... That was from my aunt.
"Hey! Are you OK with being alone? How is Tom in America?"
I AM OK!! My hubby is OK? I don't know! He is supposed to be OK because I haven't gotten any message. He went to the U.S. on last Sunday, saying, "I will be very busy during the trip, so I won't call you unless something bad happens!"
I told my aunt so.
Usually, my mom and aunt don't call me often. But when my hubby is away from home, they feel they are like my "safety net." I appreciate that, but actually...I'm pretty comfortable being alone!
When I just got married, I always invited my friend, and had her sleepover at my house when my hubby went to a business trip.
However, now, I grew up enough to enjoy "being alone"? and I realized I have many things to do in my free time. And now, I'm just busy with work!
Maybe, it's really good for me to "enjoy being alone" and "have a place to go, and people to meet." But surely, "having my hubby back safely" is the best thing!
Yes, just himself...and some souvenirs...
Am I nagging at him???
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Zeal
In the morning, I REALLY didn't want to go to work.
Last night, I found myself failing the first grade of EIKEN (probably, unless the miracle happens...) so I wanted to neglect my "English teaching" job!
...But I knew I couldn't.
I reluctantly got up, and went to work as usual.
My first student of the day, Ryunosuke, who is a 76-year-old psychiatrist, asked me lots of questions! He said his hospital invited a eminent psychiatrist from the United States as a speaker of the conference, so he wanted to know how to ask his questions.
But what he wants to know had a lot of jargon....Having still "sleeping" brain, I was desperate to answer his questions.
But as the time lapsed, I felt better. Because I realized my students were trying harder than me!
At night classes, my private students, Masao, were in plain clothes.
"Is today your day off?"
He answered, "Half of the day is so. I felt migraine, so I went to hospital today."
...After that, he came to my class!
Masao is one of my smartest student. When I started to teach him, actually I was afraid... He is a manager of sales department at a foreign-affiliated company. He uses English daily on business, so his English is fairly good.
How can I teach him!!?? My classes worth to him??
But he is very decent guy. He had rarely been absent my classes, and decided to continue to take my classes!
After Masao's class, I welcomed another student. Ryo, a 13-year-old junior high school student and...the one always looks sleepy.
I asked him, " Did you play tennis today?? How long?"
I knew he was a kind of guy, "keeping the pen and the sword."
He said," Yeah, three hours. After that, I went back home, studied for EIKEN, and I'm here now. "
I was surprised,"You are always busy! What time do you get up?"
" 5:30am. I am taking some morning classes."
...Then, I realized.
I was always saying. "How can I juggle work, study, and house hold chore!"
But many people, including Masao and Ryo, are juggling and making an effort to study even though they are much busier than me!!
Especially, Ryo, is not a Japanese. He has been trying to acquire Japanese and English as his second & third language!!
(Some of my students including kids are international students.)
...I was impressed, and decided to work harder...
I thought I needed to have "zeal" to make my English improved, to make my students improved, and take a leadership.
But today, I had just listened to music for a long time after work, to be RELAXED!
...Tomorrow is another day. That is a good expression!!
Last night, I found myself failing the first grade of EIKEN (probably, unless the miracle happens...) so I wanted to neglect my "English teaching" job!
...But I knew I couldn't.
I reluctantly got up, and went to work as usual.
My first student of the day, Ryunosuke, who is a 76-year-old psychiatrist, asked me lots of questions! He said his hospital invited a eminent psychiatrist from the United States as a speaker of the conference, so he wanted to know how to ask his questions.
But what he wants to know had a lot of jargon....Having still "sleeping" brain, I was desperate to answer his questions.
But as the time lapsed, I felt better. Because I realized my students were trying harder than me!
At night classes, my private students, Masao, were in plain clothes.
"Is today your day off?"
He answered, "Half of the day is so. I felt migraine, so I went to hospital today."
...After that, he came to my class!
Masao is one of my smartest student. When I started to teach him, actually I was afraid... He is a manager of sales department at a foreign-affiliated company. He uses English daily on business, so his English is fairly good.
How can I teach him!!?? My classes worth to him??
But he is very decent guy. He had rarely been absent my classes, and decided to continue to take my classes!
After Masao's class, I welcomed another student. Ryo, a 13-year-old junior high school student and...the one always looks sleepy.
I asked him, " Did you play tennis today?? How long?"
I knew he was a kind of guy, "keeping the pen and the sword."
He said," Yeah, three hours. After that, I went back home, studied for EIKEN, and I'm here now. "
I was surprised,"You are always busy! What time do you get up?"
" 5:30am. I am taking some morning classes."
...Then, I realized.
I was always saying. "How can I juggle work, study, and house hold chore!"
But many people, including Masao and Ryo, are juggling and making an effort to study even though they are much busier than me!!
Especially, Ryo, is not a Japanese. He has been trying to acquire Japanese and English as his second & third language!!
(Some of my students including kids are international students.)
...I was impressed, and decided to work harder...
I thought I needed to have "zeal" to make my English improved, to make my students improved, and take a leadership.
But today, I had just listened to music for a long time after work, to be RELAXED!
...Tomorrow is another day. That is a good expression!!
Monday, October 20, 2008
Jeopardy!
After I sent my husband(who was going to business trip to the U.S!) off at 5:30am, I went to bed again, and...Wow!
Almost being late, I rushed into the venue of the EIKEN.
After I got home, I was in....jeopardy!
The examinees could bring the test back to home, so I checked my answers looking up the dictionary. My score is not good...again! Like the last TOEIC! Maybe I have to give up taking the first grade of EIKEN, this time. (I NEVER give up taking it in a year! though,)
After I was pondering about EIKEN, I finally prepared for tomorrow's classes after midnight. That made me feel "jeopardy"(the word appeared EIKEN, and I knew the word,) too!
Now I finished it, and ...good night! Tomorrow is another day!!
Almost being late, I rushed into the venue of the EIKEN.
After I got home, I was in....jeopardy!
The examinees could bring the test back to home, so I checked my answers looking up the dictionary. My score is not good...again! Like the last TOEIC! Maybe I have to give up taking the first grade of EIKEN, this time. (I NEVER give up taking it in a year! though,)
After I was pondering about EIKEN, I finally prepared for tomorrow's classes after midnight. That made me feel "jeopardy"(the word appeared EIKEN, and I knew the word,) too!
Now I finished it, and ...good night! Tomorrow is another day!!
Sunday, October 19, 2008
The day befofe
Unlikely as usual, I worked on Saturday.
Yuri, who is also a part time teacher at my school, lost her mother. As a substitute of her, I taught some classes today.
Frankly speaking, I didn't want to go to work today...because it's the day before the EIKEN! I haven't studied well lately, so today was the precious day off.
But how dare I say, "no!??" It's emergency!!
Before I left school, I talked with Frank, an Australian co-worker. I said I was going to take the EIKEN tomorrow, so he said...
"Wow! Break your leg!"
...Yap, even I won't break my "leg," it will break my "heart," if I fail it...
And that possibility is pretty high! I don't have any confidence at all!
Additionally, my hubby will go to the U.S. for one week as a business trip, from tomorrow. I have to get up at 4:30 am to send him off!
Well, well, maybe it's not a big deal if I fail the EIKEN.
The most important thing for me is that my hubby comes home safe!
Yes, just himself...and some souvenirs I asked for... Right.
Yuri, who is also a part time teacher at my school, lost her mother. As a substitute of her, I taught some classes today.
Frankly speaking, I didn't want to go to work today...because it's the day before the EIKEN! I haven't studied well lately, so today was the precious day off.
But how dare I say, "no!??" It's emergency!!
Before I left school, I talked with Frank, an Australian co-worker. I said I was going to take the EIKEN tomorrow, so he said...
"Wow! Break your leg!"
...Yap, even I won't break my "leg," it will break my "heart," if I fail it...
And that possibility is pretty high! I don't have any confidence at all!
Additionally, my hubby will go to the U.S. for one week as a business trip, from tomorrow. I have to get up at 4:30 am to send him off!
Well, well, maybe it's not a big deal if I fail the EIKEN.
The most important thing for me is that my hubby comes home safe!
Yes, just himself...and some souvenirs I asked for... Right.
Saturday, October 18, 2008
Like to complain?
Do you have this kind of experience?
When you are relaxed or work something at your home, a phone rings. That is from your friend. S/he keeps talking about her/himself, mostly...complaints!
My day was "the unlucky day" today.
Actually, she is not even "my friend." Let's say, "an acquaintance."
But we have something to talk with. I got a call, but I couldn't take. I called her back from my cell phone(that is a point!), then...she kept talking for one hour!
Why did I listen to her? Because I knew lately she has been under the very hard situation in her private life. I wanted to say, "Honey, I have an important test on Sunday, and I have to work tomorrow. I have lots of household chores to do today, so I don't have time to listen to you!"
But I didn't want to be such a bitch to a girl who just got hurt.
However, I couldn't stop wondering.
Some people just want to complain all the time. They always seek "someone who is kind enough to listen to us without judging!"
I want to be a kind person, but I don't understand their feeling.
Why don't they know it's just waste of time? It's not only waste of "their" time, but also they are "eating" their victims precious time!
Of course sometimes I also need someone who just listens to me.
But, not ALL THE TIME! I can smell "such people," so I avoid these people as much as possible. However, as long as I communicate with many kinds of people, sometimes I just "can't get away."
...Oh! Am I complaining now!? I'm sorry!!!
When you are relaxed or work something at your home, a phone rings. That is from your friend. S/he keeps talking about her/himself, mostly...complaints!
My day was "the unlucky day" today.
Actually, she is not even "my friend." Let's say, "an acquaintance."
But we have something to talk with. I got a call, but I couldn't take. I called her back from my cell phone(that is a point!), then...she kept talking for one hour!
Why did I listen to her? Because I knew lately she has been under the very hard situation in her private life. I wanted to say, "Honey, I have an important test on Sunday, and I have to work tomorrow. I have lots of household chores to do today, so I don't have time to listen to you!"
But I didn't want to be such a bitch to a girl who just got hurt.
However, I couldn't stop wondering.
Some people just want to complain all the time. They always seek "someone who is kind enough to listen to us without judging!"
I want to be a kind person, but I don't understand their feeling.
Why don't they know it's just waste of time? It's not only waste of "their" time, but also they are "eating" their victims precious time!
Of course sometimes I also need someone who just listens to me.
But, not ALL THE TIME! I can smell "such people," so I avoid these people as much as possible. However, as long as I communicate with many kinds of people, sometimes I just "can't get away."
...Oh! Am I complaining now!? I'm sorry!!!
Friday, October 17, 2008
Parents' expectation, children's initiation
Two of my private students are teenagers. It is obvious they are too young to decide, "I need to take English private lessons!" As you know, the mothers decided.
One is a 13-year-old boy. His (fictitious) name is Mitsuru. He had lived in Germany for a few years. So called, a returnee...who is not from an English-speaking country.
His class is customized to pass the pre-second grade of EIKEN. It is said if you pass that grade, your English level is almost same as 10th grade students. Now he is 7th grade(In Japan, a freshman of a junior high,) so his English is assumed pretty well.
However, not as good as the one who can easily pass the pre-second grade.
His mother is really desperate to let him pass it. She said Mitsuru's younger daughter, who is only 9 years old, passed the pre-second grade of EIKEN.
She let Mitsuru take two private lessons per week. One is from me, the other is from Bob(a native English speaker.)
Do you know the tuition of private lessons at my school? One private lesson(50 minutes) is about 10,000yen! (Don't misunderstand! I don't get paid such much money!!)
She made Mitsuru's contracts with 20 private lessons. Half of them are my lessons.
Misturu is a pretty obedient boy. He always tries very hard during my lessons, but also seems to be very sleepy. He said he was busy with tennis club activities & study (not only English, but every subjects.) "Juggling a job, household, and study" is always my concern, but this 13-year-old boy may have the same concern as me...
The other boy, Takuya, is 16 years old. His aim is to pass the second grade of EIKEN. Oh, correction:his mother's aim...
His family is pretty famous in my school because the whole family members have been our students for several years. How much money have they spent us? Yes, they are VIP! Very Important People!!
Just after Takuya's first lesson, I called his mother. I wanted to tell her about his text book. The call was supposed to finish in a few minutes.
However...she started to tell me how her two sons had studied English, and how English is important for two of them for 40 minutes. I was listening to her talking, how crucial for him to pass the second grade of EIKEN.
She was not demanding, rather than a good person. She said," I know the most important thing is how Takuya can work hard. I applied for 30 private lessons from you. If the result didn't come within the term, I will extend the contract!"
She also said she had made him take EIKEN every time. (The test is provided three times per year.)
By contrast from his mother's zeal, Takuya is so easy-going. Once, he forgot the textbook. On another day, he was late. Today, I said to him, "I heard you take EIKEN every time! The next EIKEN is this coming Sunday. How are you preparing?"
Then he said, "What!? This coming Sunday!? I didn't know that!!"
...Can I make the mothers dreams come true? Can I make them pass the EIKEN for real? The mothers' expectation and the children's initiation seems to have a big gaps. I don't know how it will go, but... what can do is just do my best!
Not only me, but you also, test-taker boys!
One is a 13-year-old boy. His (fictitious) name is Mitsuru. He had lived in Germany for a few years. So called, a returnee...who is not from an English-speaking country.
His class is customized to pass the pre-second grade of EIKEN. It is said if you pass that grade, your English level is almost same as 10th grade students. Now he is 7th grade(In Japan, a freshman of a junior high,) so his English is assumed pretty well.
However, not as good as the one who can easily pass the pre-second grade.
His mother is really desperate to let him pass it. She said Mitsuru's younger daughter, who is only 9 years old, passed the pre-second grade of EIKEN.
She let Mitsuru take two private lessons per week. One is from me, the other is from Bob(a native English speaker.)
Do you know the tuition of private lessons at my school? One private lesson(50 minutes) is about 10,000yen! (Don't misunderstand! I don't get paid such much money!!)
She made Mitsuru's contracts with 20 private lessons. Half of them are my lessons.
Misturu is a pretty obedient boy. He always tries very hard during my lessons, but also seems to be very sleepy. He said he was busy with tennis club activities & study (not only English, but every subjects.) "Juggling a job, household, and study" is always my concern, but this 13-year-old boy may have the same concern as me...
The other boy, Takuya, is 16 years old. His aim is to pass the second grade of EIKEN. Oh, correction:his mother's aim...
His family is pretty famous in my school because the whole family members have been our students for several years. How much money have they spent us? Yes, they are VIP! Very Important People!!
Just after Takuya's first lesson, I called his mother. I wanted to tell her about his text book. The call was supposed to finish in a few minutes.
However...she started to tell me how her two sons had studied English, and how English is important for two of them for 40 minutes. I was listening to her talking, how crucial for him to pass the second grade of EIKEN.
She was not demanding, rather than a good person. She said," I know the most important thing is how Takuya can work hard. I applied for 30 private lessons from you. If the result didn't come within the term, I will extend the contract!"
She also said she had made him take EIKEN every time. (The test is provided three times per year.)
By contrast from his mother's zeal, Takuya is so easy-going. Once, he forgot the textbook. On another day, he was late. Today, I said to him, "I heard you take EIKEN every time! The next EIKEN is this coming Sunday. How are you preparing?"
Then he said, "What!? This coming Sunday!? I didn't know that!!"
...Can I make the mothers dreams come true? Can I make them pass the EIKEN for real? The mothers' expectation and the children's initiation seems to have a big gaps. I don't know how it will go, but... what can do is just do my best!
Not only me, but you also, test-taker boys!
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Thing in common
Just after all classes (including three consecutive energetic kids classes) and some counselings with a few students, the clock showed around 9:30pm.
I knew I had to work overtime today to fill in some papers.
Then, my head teacher, Toshi, caught me and said, "Do you have time today? We're going to a restaurant after work. It's free meal because we did make a big profit last month. Come with us!"
I just wanted to go home, but I smiled. "Sure! Why can't I not to come!"
...I tend to be a "homebody" lately, and I have to study for the EIKEN on this weekend... But I know the communication among co-workers is crucial.
If we spend the time together, I can get to know them & get new information about the job.
And also I know I always have a great time with my co-workers.
All of them (us!?) are cute! I mean, their appearance & characters, both of them!!
At the end of the dinner, I found an interesting fact.
When a waiter said, "As a dessert, which one would you like? The vanilla ice cream, or the green tea ice cream?"
Then, everyone (three Japanese including me, one American, and one Australian) said in unison, " Green tea!"
It made me surprised. Most "conservative" people, for example like my hubby, definitely take the vanilla one. Why?because that is the most popular, and basic one!
My hubby always takes "the major one" and I always take "the minor one."
I just love to try new menu or new flavor!
Because we have a same job? we have a thing in common?? Probably, we have more "things" in common?? Could be!!
I knew I had to work overtime today to fill in some papers.
Then, my head teacher, Toshi, caught me and said, "Do you have time today? We're going to a restaurant after work. It's free meal because we did make a big profit last month. Come with us!"
I just wanted to go home, but I smiled. "Sure! Why can't I not to come!"
...I tend to be a "homebody" lately, and I have to study for the EIKEN on this weekend... But I know the communication among co-workers is crucial.
If we spend the time together, I can get to know them & get new information about the job.
And also I know I always have a great time with my co-workers.
All of them (us!?) are cute! I mean, their appearance & characters, both of them!!
At the end of the dinner, I found an interesting fact.
When a waiter said, "As a dessert, which one would you like? The vanilla ice cream, or the green tea ice cream?"
Then, everyone (three Japanese including me, one American, and one Australian) said in unison, " Green tea!"
It made me surprised. Most "conservative" people, for example like my hubby, definitely take the vanilla one. Why?because that is the most popular, and basic one!
My hubby always takes "the major one" and I always take "the minor one."
I just love to try new menu or new flavor!
Because we have a same job? we have a thing in common?? Probably, we have more "things" in common?? Could be!!
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
"Any questions?"
"So...it's time to finish. Any questions?"
This moment could be the most terrified moment, for a new teacher, like me.
Today, I noticed that Syoko, an modern artist in my class, asks me interesting questions all the time.
From her archives:
"What's the difference between I have to and I need to?"
"Is there any difference between really and very?"
"Are they the same that "I want to be" and "I want to become?""
"Where should the adverbs be? Sometimes they are just before the subjects. How can we know where we should put these?"
I answers all the time (of course! That is my job!), but sometimes I am not sure my answer is precisely correct.
Because grammar has been changing day by day. Sometimes there are no detailed rules. Depends on the speaker's emotion, the language changes.
English beginners who are eager to learn, like Shoko, want to have clear explanation.
I have been trying to do what they want, but at the same time, I say to them.
"Don't hurry! Use English every day. Read a lot, listen a lot, write a lot, and speak a lot of English. Someday, you will find yourself getting "English sense.""
My students believe I have the perfect English sense. Do I? No! I am also the one who is trying to get the "sense"!!
This moment could be the most terrified moment, for a new teacher, like me.
Today, I noticed that Syoko, an modern artist in my class, asks me interesting questions all the time.
From her archives:
"What's the difference between I have to and I need to?"
"Is there any difference between really and very?"
"Are they the same that "I want to be" and "I want to become?""
"Where should the adverbs be? Sometimes they are just before the subjects. How can we know where we should put these?"
I answers all the time (of course! That is my job!), but sometimes I am not sure my answer is precisely correct.
Because grammar has been changing day by day. Sometimes there are no detailed rules. Depends on the speaker's emotion, the language changes.
English beginners who are eager to learn, like Shoko, want to have clear explanation.
I have been trying to do what they want, but at the same time, I say to them.
"Don't hurry! Use English every day. Read a lot, listen a lot, write a lot, and speak a lot of English. Someday, you will find yourself getting "English sense.""
My students believe I have the perfect English sense. Do I? No! I am also the one who is trying to get the "sense"!!
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Perfume and Silk
Even though it has been very fine holidays, my hubby and I has stayed home on Sunday and today because he has to work, and I have to study.
However, we watched two movie DVDs. They were Perfume http://movies.yahoo.com/movie/1808762716/infoand Silk ttp://movies.yahoo.com/movie/1809416923/info.
One of my philosophies is... we should watch movies at least one per week, as well as read books at least one per month. ( I don't follow it because I can't manage time well! But I want to follow☆) Why? because books and movies are great learning! We can learn universal truth, innovative ideas, inspirational stories from reading. Compared with movies, we can learn lives, world, and emotion.
The visual images are mostly much more impressive & easier to catch than writing when we see "the world we don't know." Also, actors express humans emotion by their look, sigh, expression, and gesture. They are like "non-verbal language."
Sometimes we can't say what we want to say directly.
If you watch movies a lot, you will get to know what people want to say through their non-verbal language. It means you can be "an expert of love."
I don't know, a movie critic said so!!
However, we watched two movie DVDs. They were Perfume http://movies.yahoo.com/movie/1808762716/infoand Silk ttp://movies.yahoo.com/movie/1809416923/info.
One of my philosophies is... we should watch movies at least one per week, as well as read books at least one per month. ( I don't follow it because I can't manage time well! But I want to follow☆) Why? because books and movies are great learning! We can learn universal truth, innovative ideas, inspirational stories from reading. Compared with movies, we can learn lives, world, and emotion.
The visual images are mostly much more impressive & easier to catch than writing when we see "the world we don't know." Also, actors express humans emotion by their look, sigh, expression, and gesture. They are like "non-verbal language."
Sometimes we can't say what we want to say directly.
If you watch movies a lot, you will get to know what people want to say through their non-verbal language. It means you can be "an expert of love."
I don't know, a movie critic said so!!
Monday, October 13, 2008
Test-taking skills
One week later from today, I will be taking the EIKEN. When I was a junior of high school, I passed the second grade of this, and that was one condition of my desired college's admission by recommendation. I got the recommendation successfully!
10 years later since then,(Oops! More years...) I mean now, I happened to have to take EIKEN again. I haven't taken the semi-first grade, but I've decided to take the first one. Because if I am successfully pass it, my salary goes up (just a little bit,) and I am supposed to know the test-taking skills!
Now, I have two private student aiming for passing the EIKEN. One is a junior high school student wanting to pass the semi-second grade, and the other is a high school student whose desired college requires to have the second grade of it.
Actually, their mothers want them to take those MORE...
To prove I am a qualified teacher to teach EIKEN study, it's better for me to pass it!
However, as you know, I really don't want to take it... I've been studying vocabulary, reading books, and keeping this blog to (hopefully) improve my basic English ability.
But I feel the "practical" study for EIKEN hasn't enough. I just don't have time to study sufficiently for EIKEN right now!
But taking the actual test will be my good experience, so I will do it.
More than that, I paid the examination fee, which is 7,500yen if I remember correctly!
How will it go? I can just do my best until it's over!!
10 years later since then,(Oops! More years...) I mean now, I happened to have to take EIKEN again. I haven't taken the semi-first grade, but I've decided to take the first one. Because if I am successfully pass it, my salary goes up (just a little bit,) and I am supposed to know the test-taking skills!
Now, I have two private student aiming for passing the EIKEN. One is a junior high school student wanting to pass the semi-second grade, and the other is a high school student whose desired college requires to have the second grade of it.
Actually, their mothers want them to take those MORE...
To prove I am a qualified teacher to teach EIKEN study, it's better for me to pass it!
However, as you know, I really don't want to take it... I've been studying vocabulary, reading books, and keeping this blog to (hopefully) improve my basic English ability.
But I feel the "practical" study for EIKEN hasn't enough. I just don't have time to study sufficiently for EIKEN right now!
But taking the actual test will be my good experience, so I will do it.
More than that, I paid the examination fee, which is 7,500yen if I remember correctly!
How will it go? I can just do my best until it's over!!
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Patron, philanthropist, prophet
I think I haven't told it before, but I have a ...patron. And, the one is not my husband.
That is... my aunt! She is a professor of nutrition. Note: single.
Since I was born, she has loved me so much and gave me what I wanted.
I think half of my clothes could have come from her "fund!"
Her generosity goes to not only me. She always buys food of the season and send them to her family, relatives, my hubby's family, even though her students!!
Is she a philanthropist?? Could be...
She was visiting Tokyo to participate in a conference. Today, we cruised Ginza, and she bought me a pearl necklace. It was a fantastic time!
...And also, I met a fantastic guy. On the way I went to Ginza, in the subway, I was literally "studying" English. I felt the gaze, so I looked the way. Then, there was a surprisingly cute Caucasian guy, looking at my studying, and said, "Ganbatte kudasai.(Good luck!)"
We happened to talk for a while. It turned out his name is Joan, a French model, who is appearing TV commercial of Sony and Honda! I don't recognize those, but I will check them out. We talked about his girlfriend and my husband as well as our jobs.
It was not only surprising that he was remarkably lovely person, but also he repeated "I hope you have a baby soon" to me...
Well, I know, I know, even my parents rarely say to us because of their reserve...why did he say a lot to me??? I felt it's really funny, and I took it as positive way.
Maybe he was the "prophet" and it will become real soon!
Really??? I don't know!!!
That is... my aunt! She is a professor of nutrition. Note: single.
Since I was born, she has loved me so much and gave me what I wanted.
I think half of my clothes could have come from her "fund!"
Her generosity goes to not only me. She always buys food of the season and send them to her family, relatives, my hubby's family, even though her students!!
Is she a philanthropist?? Could be...
She was visiting Tokyo to participate in a conference. Today, we cruised Ginza, and she bought me a pearl necklace. It was a fantastic time!
...And also, I met a fantastic guy. On the way I went to Ginza, in the subway, I was literally "studying" English. I felt the gaze, so I looked the way. Then, there was a surprisingly cute Caucasian guy, looking at my studying, and said, "Ganbatte kudasai.(Good luck!)"
We happened to talk for a while. It turned out his name is Joan, a French model, who is appearing TV commercial of Sony and Honda! I don't recognize those, but I will check them out. We talked about his girlfriend and my husband as well as our jobs.
It was not only surprising that he was remarkably lovely person, but also he repeated "I hope you have a baby soon" to me...
Well, I know, I know, even my parents rarely say to us because of their reserve...why did he say a lot to me??? I felt it's really funny, and I took it as positive way.
Maybe he was the "prophet" and it will become real soon!
Really??? I don't know!!!
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Basic Black
"Basic Black" is a business inspirational book written by Cathie Black, who is the president of Hearst Magazines( one of the major publishers in the U.S.)
I had just finished reading this book a few days ago.
Cathie has been chosen one of Fortune's "50 most powerful women is American Business." Yes, she is powerful, beautiful, and unique. So called a "career woman."
Also, she is married, has three children (two of them were adopted.) Yes, so called "having it all" life.
However, my favorite part of this book is where she wrote, "I hate the word "having it all."
She said, " I don't think the best life for every women is so-called "having it all."
Having your all! Not anyone else's. I had been a workaholic, but my choice wouldn't suit everyone. Live your best life. Not necessarily the most successful life, and not anyone else's life-but your best life."
I was wondering how much I can work when I was reading this book, but this part gave me courage to keep my own pace.
When I was a high school student, our Japanese teacher told us, "You have to make numerous decisions if your life. In those critical moments, what becomes your "criteria" to chose just one? That is...books. Read good books as many as you can. I guarantee they will be nutrition in your mind."
I know the importance of reading books. But after I graduated high school, I just had been attracted "secular" things, and alienated readings.
And...actually...the "Basic Black" is my first English book I read through outside classes! I have read many hardcover books because I needed to read them in English classes, and I like to read English magazines... But "reading an English business book privately" is my first experience!!
I know I need to read more and more...as English improvement, and get nutrition for my healthy mind!!
I had just finished reading this book a few days ago.
Cathie has been chosen one of Fortune's "50 most powerful women is American Business." Yes, she is powerful, beautiful, and unique. So called a "career woman."
Also, she is married, has three children (two of them were adopted.) Yes, so called "having it all" life.
However, my favorite part of this book is where she wrote, "I hate the word "having it all."
She said, " I don't think the best life for every women is so-called "having it all."
Having your all! Not anyone else's. I had been a workaholic, but my choice wouldn't suit everyone. Live your best life. Not necessarily the most successful life, and not anyone else's life-but your best life."
I was wondering how much I can work when I was reading this book, but this part gave me courage to keep my own pace.
When I was a high school student, our Japanese teacher told us, "You have to make numerous decisions if your life. In those critical moments, what becomes your "criteria" to chose just one? That is...books. Read good books as many as you can. I guarantee they will be nutrition in your mind."
I know the importance of reading books. But after I graduated high school, I just had been attracted "secular" things, and alienated readings.
And...actually...the "Basic Black" is my first English book I read through outside classes! I have read many hardcover books because I needed to read them in English classes, and I like to read English magazines... But "reading an English business book privately" is my first experience!!
I know I need to read more and more...as English improvement, and get nutrition for my healthy mind!!
Friday, October 10, 2008
Notebook for your future
My earliest class's private student canceled the class today, so today's my starting time of classes became 3:00pm. Yeah!!
Usually, part time teachers can go to the school anytime unless they aren't late for their own classes.
I felt "relaxed" in the morning and skimmed my favorite town magazine, "Hanako."
Then I found an innovative ad of a new book.
The title is "Notebook for your future." The author is the president of an IT company.
He has kept "the notebook for his future" everyday for 19 years!
He writes the day's objectives, the day's schedule every half hour, 50 actions he should do on the day, what studied on the day,etc, etc.
He gets up 4:00am in the morning, and keeps the note for 40 minutes everyday!
I can't believe it! He must be much much more busier than me. How can he make the time!?
I wanted to write "the notebook for my future" immediately, but I knew I need to "reset" myself to take a nap before I went to work.
So, I went to bed...then, I slept until 12:00pm!!!
It's OK because I have to get to school until 3:00pm, but I needed to prepare a lot before classes!!
If you are a girl, you know... Just before "a visitor" comes once a month, I become really sleepy!! I rushed to go to school, prepared for classes, taught three classes, then finally at 6:00pm, I could eat "the first meal" of the day.
What a life far from "a notebook for my future!!!"
Usually, part time teachers can go to the school anytime unless they aren't late for their own classes.
I felt "relaxed" in the morning and skimmed my favorite town magazine, "Hanako."
Then I found an innovative ad of a new book.
The title is "Notebook for your future." The author is the president of an IT company.
He has kept "the notebook for his future" everyday for 19 years!
He writes the day's objectives, the day's schedule every half hour, 50 actions he should do on the day, what studied on the day,etc, etc.
He gets up 4:00am in the morning, and keeps the note for 40 minutes everyday!
I can't believe it! He must be much much more busier than me. How can he make the time!?
I wanted to write "the notebook for my future" immediately, but I knew I need to "reset" myself to take a nap before I went to work.
So, I went to bed...then, I slept until 12:00pm!!!
It's OK because I have to get to school until 3:00pm, but I needed to prepare a lot before classes!!
If you are a girl, you know... Just before "a visitor" comes once a month, I become really sleepy!! I rushed to go to school, prepared for classes, taught three classes, then finally at 6:00pm, I could eat "the first meal" of the day.
What a life far from "a notebook for my future!!!"
Thursday, October 09, 2008
Plateau
It's been four months since I started to teach English.
I know it may be too early to day,"I feel [plateau] at my work," but I do.
The more I teach, the more things I have to do (care) is increasing.
In other words, my obligations( not "I have to," but "I should"...) has been increasing a lot, but my teaching skills has just been "plateau." My English is as well.
Today, I had the most troublesome student in my class, and the mothers of other kids in the class are really earnest about their children's English education.
I'm concerned how I will handle the class.
I have some private students who "have to" pass EIKEN as soon as possible, and their "mothers" (again!) pressure makes me feel blue... (At least, I don't think I can pass the EIKEN first grade two weeks later if I am still working just hard!!)
I should be "encouraged" by their expectation. However, when I am tired, I just can't.
I have been asked some overwork from my manager. Moreover, one of a part time teacher of my school lost her father, so probably I have to work more.
The manager and head teacher expect me a lot because "Keiko is liked by many students, not only as a good teacher, but also as a good friend." As they are saying...
That is "my honor." But... Hmmm....
Working is always hard!! I don't work so hard like my hubby or my friends, but I already feel "burnout."
Well, well,well, but surely there are many good things, too!
Today, I was so impressed how Maki, who is one of the dedicated students in my school, improved her English. I have checked her writings every week, she has memorized the proofread versions, and presented them. We have done this self study for three months.
Maki's speaking skill has improved a lot! Her pronunciation & intonation became much better, and she hardly made grammatical mistakes without the script.
I know that's because she have taken our "English conversation" lessons. It owes her effort and our teaching! That is great!
I "ended up" today's blog with a positive side. Yes, see the positive sides!!
I know it may be too early to day,"I feel [plateau] at my work," but I do.
The more I teach, the more things I have to do (care) is increasing.
In other words, my obligations( not "I have to," but "I should"...) has been increasing a lot, but my teaching skills has just been "plateau." My English is as well.
Today, I had the most troublesome student in my class, and the mothers of other kids in the class are really earnest about their children's English education.
I'm concerned how I will handle the class.
I have some private students who "have to" pass EIKEN as soon as possible, and their "mothers" (again!) pressure makes me feel blue... (At least, I don't think I can pass the EIKEN first grade two weeks later if I am still working just hard!!)
I should be "encouraged" by their expectation. However, when I am tired, I just can't.
I have been asked some overwork from my manager. Moreover, one of a part time teacher of my school lost her father, so probably I have to work more.
The manager and head teacher expect me a lot because "Keiko is liked by many students, not only as a good teacher, but also as a good friend." As they are saying...
That is "my honor." But... Hmmm....
Working is always hard!! I don't work so hard like my hubby or my friends, but I already feel "burnout."
Well, well,well, but surely there are many good things, too!
Today, I was so impressed how Maki, who is one of the dedicated students in my school, improved her English. I have checked her writings every week, she has memorized the proofread versions, and presented them. We have done this self study for three months.
Maki's speaking skill has improved a lot! Her pronunciation & intonation became much better, and she hardly made grammatical mistakes without the script.
I know that's because she have taken our "English conversation" lessons. It owes her effort and our teaching! That is great!
I "ended up" today's blog with a positive side. Yes, see the positive sides!!
Wednesday, October 08, 2008
Renew the Tense
Every Tuesday, I go to my "secondary" school. My "primary" school is located along a gorgeous station of the Yamanote-line. My secondary school is at a kind of "suburb" area, where is near my house.
Today, I actually got really nervous. It was the second time to go to the secondary school, but today is my first time to teach there!
The flow of teaching is the same as my primary one, but there are some differences in detail.
Mostly, the STUDENTS are completely different people! (Of course they are...)
In the first class, I had two students. An engineer guy and an office lady. They...didn't make smile AT ALL during the class. I know they were so last week as well, but...they looked so vacant that I was worried what was wrong with me!!
After the class, when I talked with them, I noticed they just didn't understand some vocabulary. Phew!
In the last class, there were SIX students. Usually I have a few students in a class, so...I just felt "tense" unnecessarily.
I noticed I skipped an important step which is the practice of pre-activity of the teaching point. I shouldn't do that, but I knew the most important thing was "looking confident." So, I made an expression, "Don't worry! I skipped the practice because there are many students today. I will let you practice a lot later," as non-verbal language, you know...
After I left the school, I felt "Thank God, I survived!!" That was exactly the same feeling when I just started the teaching job.
Changing circumstances has "risks," but we can lean more from that experience.
Someday, "THE DAY"( when I can't work anymore!) will come. Until the time, experience a lot as possible as I can!!
Today, I actually got really nervous. It was the second time to go to the secondary school, but today is my first time to teach there!
The flow of teaching is the same as my primary one, but there are some differences in detail.
Mostly, the STUDENTS are completely different people! (Of course they are...)
In the first class, I had two students. An engineer guy and an office lady. They...didn't make smile AT ALL during the class. I know they were so last week as well, but...they looked so vacant that I was worried what was wrong with me!!
After the class, when I talked with them, I noticed they just didn't understand some vocabulary. Phew!
In the last class, there were SIX students. Usually I have a few students in a class, so...I just felt "tense" unnecessarily.
I noticed I skipped an important step which is the practice of pre-activity of the teaching point. I shouldn't do that, but I knew the most important thing was "looking confident." So, I made an expression, "Don't worry! I skipped the practice because there are many students today. I will let you practice a lot later," as non-verbal language, you know...
After I left the school, I felt "Thank God, I survived!!" That was exactly the same feeling when I just started the teaching job.
Changing circumstances has "risks," but we can lean more from that experience.
Someday, "THE DAY"( when I can't work anymore!) will come. Until the time, experience a lot as possible as I can!!
Tuesday, October 07, 2008
Getting Renewal
I wrote "I have seven classes to teach tomorrow" yesterday.
Yes, I do... From noon, I had a lesson with a psychiatrist. I had two vacant hours. But I needed to prepare for next lessons & copy teaching manuals for kids' lessons, etc.
Then, I had six consecutive classes to teach! It was like, "six-hour-teaching marathon!" However, I noticed one thing. I had Yakiniku Teisyoku today because I was REALLY hungry. The one I bought at a convenience store had mostly, meat, meat, and meat. I felt that is not good for my health, but...I didn't feel "hungry" at all during "six-hour-teaching marathon!"
Maybe the fact "eating only meat is not good for our health" is true, but another fact "meat can be your energy soon" is also true, I proved!!
Oh, what I want to say most is not the "meat" thing.
I got "renewal" from my private student, Kazuki. That made me delighted!
Kazuki is maybe the cleverest student of mine. He is a sales manager of a foreign-affiliated company. He doesn't use our regular textbook in his private class.
He subscribes English newspaper, so we pick one long article every week from it. I make vocabulary quiz and comprehension quiz. In the class, we do the quiz.
So, it means...I take time the longest to prepare for Kazuki's class!
Because his English is already fairly good, I was not sure whether he renews the contract (continue to take my lessons) or not.
However, today, he renewed his contract! Yeah!
I have had three private students who needed to renew their contracts. So far, all of them agreed to continue to take my classes!
It was great for me & our school. Regular lessons have "terms," but private classes don't. Therefore, private students can quit whenever their final terms of the contracts.
If they don't like their teachers, they wouldn't renew the contracts...so, I was glad!!
I was satisfied & sensed fulfillment to hear that after all lessons, around 9:00pm.
But when Hiromi, who was our assistant manager looked in on our office, saw my face, she screamed..."Are you OK? You look AWFUL!!"
I wasn't exhausted, but "six-hour-teaching marathon" didn't give me a chance to check my make-up. Sorry!!
Yes, I do... From noon, I had a lesson with a psychiatrist. I had two vacant hours. But I needed to prepare for next lessons & copy teaching manuals for kids' lessons, etc.
Then, I had six consecutive classes to teach! It was like, "six-hour-teaching marathon!" However, I noticed one thing. I had Yakiniku Teisyoku today because I was REALLY hungry. The one I bought at a convenience store had mostly, meat, meat, and meat. I felt that is not good for my health, but...I didn't feel "hungry" at all during "six-hour-teaching marathon!"
Maybe the fact "eating only meat is not good for our health" is true, but another fact "meat can be your energy soon" is also true, I proved!!
Oh, what I want to say most is not the "meat" thing.
I got "renewal" from my private student, Kazuki. That made me delighted!
Kazuki is maybe the cleverest student of mine. He is a sales manager of a foreign-affiliated company. He doesn't use our regular textbook in his private class.
He subscribes English newspaper, so we pick one long article every week from it. I make vocabulary quiz and comprehension quiz. In the class, we do the quiz.
So, it means...I take time the longest to prepare for Kazuki's class!
Because his English is already fairly good, I was not sure whether he renews the contract (continue to take my lessons) or not.
However, today, he renewed his contract! Yeah!
I have had three private students who needed to renew their contracts. So far, all of them agreed to continue to take my classes!
It was great for me & our school. Regular lessons have "terms," but private classes don't. Therefore, private students can quit whenever their final terms of the contracts.
If they don't like their teachers, they wouldn't renew the contracts...so, I was glad!!
I was satisfied & sensed fulfillment to hear that after all lessons, around 9:00pm.
But when Hiromi, who was our assistant manager looked in on our office, saw my face, she screamed..."Are you OK? You look AWFUL!!"
I wasn't exhausted, but "six-hour-teaching marathon" didn't give me a chance to check my make-up. Sorry!!
Monday, October 06, 2008
What do you do on Sunday's night?
Sunday's night is a kind of "epilogue" of your wonderful weekend.
What do you "close" your nice week?
My hubby and I brought lots of work at home, in this weekend.
He had worked all day today, but in the evening...he closed his week, watching his favorite DVD.
Me? I cleaned rooms, pressed suits and blouses, and cooked for a few days( I don't have time for cooking on three days in a week!)during the day.
No wonder I was so, because I woke up 12:00pm today! The cold medicine worked "effectively," I guess...
Finally, from 11:30 pm, I started to prepare for tomorrow's classes.
My weekend "closes" always in such a rush way.
Tomorrow, I have seven classes to teach! I haven't prepared for many of them, but...I just should do work "effectively!"
Sleep tight☆
What do you "close" your nice week?
My hubby and I brought lots of work at home, in this weekend.
He had worked all day today, but in the evening...he closed his week, watching his favorite DVD.
Me? I cleaned rooms, pressed suits and blouses, and cooked for a few days( I don't have time for cooking on three days in a week!)during the day.
No wonder I was so, because I woke up 12:00pm today! The cold medicine worked "effectively," I guess...
Finally, from 11:30 pm, I started to prepare for tomorrow's classes.
My weekend "closes" always in such a rush way.
Tomorrow, I have seven classes to teach! I haven't prepared for many of them, but...I just should do work "effectively!"
Sleep tight☆
Sunday, October 05, 2008
Soul Food
Although both of us are having a cold, my hubby and I drove to Kichijoji for some reasons.
We finally bought a wall hanging clock and the set of bed covers.
Believe it or not, I haven't cared for bed linen stuff. So, it was the first time to have "stylish" bed covers!
The time in Kichijoji was a real blast. However, the way we went back to home, we really felt ill... In that case, which food do you have as dinner?
In our case...soba! My hubby had a sore throat, but he could eat soba.
That soba actually really comforted us. Ummm! The Japanese soul food is great!
By the way, what is American soul food? One of my school's teacher, Bob, looks always happy when he eats MacDonald's burger. If that is American soul food, my hubby is like a "Japanese-American" cause his ate MarDonald happily today (lunch time) even though he had such a sore throat!!
We finally bought a wall hanging clock and the set of bed covers.
Believe it or not, I haven't cared for bed linen stuff. So, it was the first time to have "stylish" bed covers!
The time in Kichijoji was a real blast. However, the way we went back to home, we really felt ill... In that case, which food do you have as dinner?
In our case...soba! My hubby had a sore throat, but he could eat soba.
That soba actually really comforted us. Ummm! The Japanese soul food is great!
By the way, what is American soul food? One of my school's teacher, Bob, looks always happy when he eats MacDonald's burger. If that is American soul food, my hubby is like a "Japanese-American" cause his ate MarDonald happily today (lunch time) even though he had such a sore throat!!
Saturday, October 04, 2008
Time for Rest
I know. It's been VERY busy week for me...
But the busier I am, the more household chores are supposed to accumulate, unfortunately...
After I woke up in this morning, I did the laundry, had breakfast, and kept the money book. Then, I "fell down" on the bed. I had slept for three hours...
After I woke up again, I wanted to clean the rooms, press clothes, and cook.
However, I just didn't want to do anything. My whole body had muscular pain, and I felt really tired. When I checked my temperature, I found out I was having a cold.
It is said, "if you have a cold, that means God is saying, [ It is time for rest! Take a rest!]" I think now it's is "the time" for me...
Good night!!
But the busier I am, the more household chores are supposed to accumulate, unfortunately...
After I woke up in this morning, I did the laundry, had breakfast, and kept the money book. Then, I "fell down" on the bed. I had slept for three hours...
After I woke up again, I wanted to clean the rooms, press clothes, and cook.
However, I just didn't want to do anything. My whole body had muscular pain, and I felt really tired. When I checked my temperature, I found out I was having a cold.
It is said, "if you have a cold, that means God is saying, [ It is time for rest! Take a rest!]" I think now it's is "the time" for me...
Good night!!
Friday, October 03, 2008
Looong Day
The following is today's my time line;
7:30am woke up, prepared my hubby's breakfast, and sent him off
8:00am exercised a little bit, did make-up & hair-do, and prepared dinner
10:30am had breakfast
11:00am left home
12:00pm arrived at school, prepared for classes
1:00pm staff meeting
2:00-6:00pm taught 4 classes in a row!
6:00pm had lunch?? & prepared for classes
7:00-9:00pm taught 2 classes in a row
9:00pm called my private student'(a high school boy)s mother, and she talked unexpectedly longer
9:30pm copied the teaching manuals of Monday classes
10:00pm left school
11:00pm came back home, and ate dinner with my hubby( he came back at the almost same time as me)
Usually, I don't work so hard. But lately, my classes has increased & some of them took time to prepare.
It was such a long day that I quenched a "power drink" at 6:30pm.
Teaching English needs energy, concentration, and flexibilities!
Actually, I had two "unexpected" happenings in a day, so I had to "impromptu performance( I mean, teaching) sometime.
However, it's interesting! The more I teach, the more I feel the responsibilities. But also I feel I have acquired much flexibilities. Maybe the process means "being a professional," even I haven't experienced a lot.
I had two important clients today, but I think I made them satisfied.
My career as a teacher is just three months and a half, but I decided to do "soulful" job as possible as I can.
And the most delightful things is...I AM FREE FROM WORK in this week!
Yeah!! After the loooong week, I want to be relaxed!!
7:30am woke up, prepared my hubby's breakfast, and sent him off
8:00am exercised a little bit, did make-up & hair-do, and prepared dinner
10:30am had breakfast
11:00am left home
12:00pm arrived at school, prepared for classes
1:00pm staff meeting
2:00-6:00pm taught 4 classes in a row!
6:00pm had lunch?? & prepared for classes
7:00-9:00pm taught 2 classes in a row
9:00pm called my private student'(a high school boy)s mother, and she talked unexpectedly longer
9:30pm copied the teaching manuals of Monday classes
10:00pm left school
11:00pm came back home, and ate dinner with my hubby( he came back at the almost same time as me)
Usually, I don't work so hard. But lately, my classes has increased & some of them took time to prepare.
It was such a long day that I quenched a "power drink" at 6:30pm.
Teaching English needs energy, concentration, and flexibilities!
Actually, I had two "unexpected" happenings in a day, so I had to "impromptu performance( I mean, teaching) sometime.
However, it's interesting! The more I teach, the more I feel the responsibilities. But also I feel I have acquired much flexibilities. Maybe the process means "being a professional," even I haven't experienced a lot.
I had two important clients today, but I think I made them satisfied.
My career as a teacher is just three months and a half, but I decided to do "soulful" job as possible as I can.
And the most delightful things is...I AM FREE FROM WORK in this week!
Yeah!! After the loooong week, I want to be relaxed!!
Thursday, October 02, 2008
Growth
I said (wrote) that the hardest class for me to teach was the 4-5 year old kids' class.
However, today...the revolution occurred in the class!!
We welcomed new students in the class. They are not only cute, but also smart girls!
Usually, the class was such a mess. It was like a zoo! Two boisterous boys were running, screaming, kicking and trying to get out of the class...
The mothers of the two new girls are friends. They searched a lot about kids English classes, and took trial lessons from various schools. I was the one who gave them a trial lesson at my school, so I was glad that the mothers decided to become our clients!!
So, I didn't want to be bothered by the two naughty boys.
However, the situation was completely different from what I imagined.
Maybe that's why the most troublesome one( I shouldn't say that, but...,) Takashi was absent. But the crybaby, Taku, didn't behave badly today.
He was a very supportive classmate of those two girls!!
He taught them how to do games or how to say some words in English.
I was amazed how he became a good boy!! I felt like, "I am seeing his growth right now!!"
I know it was a boy's instinct to show gals how he is cool & smart...
But I appreciated the boy's vanity!!
Also, even though one of the girl cried during the class because she missed her mother, she had done every parts of the class, and brought Taku's bag that he forgot.
I also felt, "Oh, I am seeing her growth!!"
I sensed the fulfillment after the class.
I heard a child "grows" suddenly, but it doesn't mean s/he "stepped up" the next stage completely.
S/He may goes back to the former step soon.
But it's OK! I've decided to keep my aggressiveness & giving "affection" them!!
...If they don't go back to be "wild animals," hopefully...
However, today...the revolution occurred in the class!!
We welcomed new students in the class. They are not only cute, but also smart girls!
Usually, the class was such a mess. It was like a zoo! Two boisterous boys were running, screaming, kicking and trying to get out of the class...
The mothers of the two new girls are friends. They searched a lot about kids English classes, and took trial lessons from various schools. I was the one who gave them a trial lesson at my school, so I was glad that the mothers decided to become our clients!!
So, I didn't want to be bothered by the two naughty boys.
However, the situation was completely different from what I imagined.
Maybe that's why the most troublesome one( I shouldn't say that, but...,) Takashi was absent. But the crybaby, Taku, didn't behave badly today.
He was a very supportive classmate of those two girls!!
He taught them how to do games or how to say some words in English.
I was amazed how he became a good boy!! I felt like, "I am seeing his growth right now!!"
I know it was a boy's instinct to show gals how he is cool & smart...
But I appreciated the boy's vanity!!
Also, even though one of the girl cried during the class because she missed her mother, she had done every parts of the class, and brought Taku's bag that he forgot.
I also felt, "Oh, I am seeing her growth!!"
I sensed the fulfillment after the class.
I heard a child "grows" suddenly, but it doesn't mean s/he "stepped up" the next stage completely.
S/He may goes back to the former step soon.
But it's OK! I've decided to keep my aggressiveness & giving "affection" them!!
...If they don't go back to be "wild animals," hopefully...
Wednesday, October 01, 2008
New school, new spirits
From today, I started to teach another branch of my school on Tuesday's nights.
I will replace Reiko, who was a full-time teacher. She became a part-time teacher and stopped to teach at nights, that's why I was asked to go to the branch.
The branch I usually go to is downtown in Tokyo. It's one of the gorgeous area.
However, the one I go to on Tuesdays is located in ...I could say, suburb." (Actually, it's near my house!)
So, students seemed a little bit different. They looked more innocent.
I observed Rie's lessons today, and was introduced as a new teacher.
Because Rie had been a full-time teacher for a long time, her classes were really good! I learned a lot from her class.
The staff of the school I go to mostly(let's say, "A" branch) has nice"spirits," but the stuff of the B school (one which I go to on Tuesday,) has also tough "spirits."
I could sense that! It's always great learning to "observe" new world☆
I will replace Reiko, who was a full-time teacher. She became a part-time teacher and stopped to teach at nights, that's why I was asked to go to the branch.
The branch I usually go to is downtown in Tokyo. It's one of the gorgeous area.
However, the one I go to on Tuesdays is located in ...I could say, suburb." (Actually, it's near my house!)
So, students seemed a little bit different. They looked more innocent.
I observed Rie's lessons today, and was introduced as a new teacher.
Because Rie had been a full-time teacher for a long time, her classes were really good! I learned a lot from her class.
The staff of the school I go to mostly(let's say, "A" branch) has nice"spirits," but the stuff of the B school (one which I go to on Tuesday,) has also tough "spirits."
I could sense that! It's always great learning to "observe" new world☆
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