School!!

So most of us came to this island expecting paradise and a break from our hard week of finals. Although the islands are absolutley beautiful and filled with many unknown species of plants and animals, we weren't expecting the teaching component of our trip to be such a struggle. We have a newfound appreciation for our high school teachers because we have realized how hard it is to keep a class of 20 highly energetic students concentrated on what we are teaching. The first day of teaching seemed almost never ending. Our lesson plan had to be rearranged since one of our classes was good in their english speaking skills while the other barely knew any. This created a challenge for Evaline, Mariel, Steve and I. After understanding how to balance work and fun, we taught the students how to respects not only us but each other while also being our friends. Now we look forward to teaching since the students are actively learning the material they are being taught. Even as teachers, we have learned alot ourselves. Evaline came in not knowing a lick of Spanish yet she managed to communicate with the students and get her message across. language was not a barrier for her friendship with the students. Mariel came in the class afraid to interact with the students worrying that they were interested in learning the subject. Yet, after creating friendships, she began to realize she had more to offer than what she thought. Steve has broken out of his shell through interactive games where he has connected with students. Overall this has been a great experience so far and it will be sad to leave our new found friends!!
---Mariel S., Evaline F., Steve L., Melanie A.