2009.09.08

Another day at school.
Last day went well, again, its because it didnt consist of any teach, just orientation. Today i went to class to take notes of JS's teaching. In my observation, the children in grade 4 are more obedient and well mannered than those in grade 6. The older students think they rule the school, in a sense they do, they can get out of control, but it is always the few students who initiate bad behaviour. The most are usually supporters or audiences of the 'few bad students'. I think they can be controlled, i can atleast try some of my ideas on class and behavioural management.

Lunch!
Its nice to have cafeteria food that is hot, come with kimchi, rice, dumpling soup and fish. Healthy lunch is important, i dont remember my elementary or highschool make that much emphasis on eathing healthy. They had vending machines selling pop, chips and the cafeteria sells junk food. It was all a scheme to increase revenue at the school, than putting emphasis on health. In some ways, the educational and social system (in my short observation), is more advanced than westerns ideas to focus on the individual. I could be wrong, but i grew up in Canada, was taught this ideology and am certain of the differences in culture and society of the two countries.

Bad drivers!
My thoughts confirmed. JS said that Koreans are bad drivers. I noticed people dont obey the red light, when crossing or driving. I've seen alot of close calls, red lights ran and speeding but i cant say i have seen an accident yet. I cross the street when its red, when its safe (its never safe), but i wouldnt run a red light because in Canada its considered manslaughter (just recently). They probably dont have the concept yet, because maybe they dont get into accidents as much as Canadian? I've only been here for a week, so we will see how bad the drivers are over here.

Conclusion
I'm glad that i now actually go to school and work (sort of hahaha). Sitting at home was good, kinda vacation but a thing in the past i should not get comfortable with (who wouldnt?). Today i pretty much made plenty of notes, readings and brainstorming ideas on how to teach. I got my schedule, i'm lucky again because i dont have to teach a full load anymore since its a new school and there arent as many classes. 11/16 classes i only have to teach the school curriculum, meaning 5/16 is my own in a whole week (40 min classes). I cant do the math, for hours a week, now. I dont teach 40 hrs a week, thats ridiculous, i teach like 22 hrs a week, the rest is preparation so im at school 8:30-4:30 preparing a curriculum or materials for teaching at my desk. Its alot of work because this is my first time, of course it would for anyone. But its fun, thats what work is all about, keeping busy, not playng Diablo II in the PC room.