English Class Part Deux
We had been hoping that after the first week word would spread and we would have a bigger turn out. This publicity angle was crucial because if the program failed to attract significant numbers of students it would be difficult for us to get more students to come due to logistical problems, advertising in Prek Bongkong, and language issues (many of our students have very low levels of English proficiency and may not be able to read adverts ). Luckily, through Bunan’s efforts and word of mouth, we had a much larger student turn out! The popularity of the afternoon session was still present but we used an additional classroom for both periods; 3 in the morning and 4 classrooms in the afternoon.
I was feeling a bit sick this week and my voice was slightly shot, so I only ended up teaching two 45 minute classes, and used the other two classes to observe, to make sure they were doing a good job and also learn from their techniques. They all did a wonderful job and were able to successfully adapt to the different levels of English. The students seem to sort themselves in some manner already. In the future we will simplify the volunteers job and improve the students experience by standardizing the level of English ability in each room. It will not to be a strict designation but rather a loose differentiation
All in all it has been an extremely successful first two weeks, and everything has seemed to fall into place. I was pleasantly surprised to find that all my students had completed their homework assignments and were extremely excited to display this fact to me - “teacher, teacher look!” I look forward to continuing the program over the next few months and I know the students do too!
Be sure to check out our beautiful silk products at www.cambodianthreads.com to support our cause!
