The Challenge of Teaching English in China

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I came to China to join my husband who was working here as a general manager, and wasn't sure about the teaching opportunities. Being in an area that has few foreigners, in fact I know of no other Americans here in this city, my first priority was to just get acclimated to my new location in a new culture where I did not speak the language. After several months I was asked to teach for a language company in a school nearby. Naively I said yes, but after only 2 days decided that this was not for me. The class size alone is intimidating as 60 elementary kids are crowded in a room. I found it hard to keep there attention and to talk over them. For some this is not a problem, but for me I am more comfortable with small groups or one-to-one. I eventually came to find a learning center called Global Community English just right down the street from where I live,that tutors adults and children of all ages in the English language or in Chinese. I found I enjoy teaching in this setting much more than the large classroom size. My time can be more flexible than following the school calendar as well. I feel that the learning opportunities are greater as more indiviual attention can be given to each student. Here are just a few photos from a Saturday class that I did with a theme on cooking and making snacks together. It was a fun time!

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Photos

Creative Lesson Plans
Trying to get them to open up and not be so shy is one of the greatest challenges.

What's in a Name
Chinese can sure pick some interesting English names. Here's twin brothers Cat & Mouse.

Christmas Songs in June
Reading English seems to be much easier for them. Singing a song make it fun.

Reindeer Face
Learning to use their creative abilities.

Learning About Food
These kids had never eaten peanut butter.

A Great Assistant
Having a good assistant that can translate makes a big difference. Here's Francis.

Chef Dream
Dream proudly shows off her new chef hat.