Day 45 Saturday January 31st, 2009
Well today is just a boring Saturday. I went to sleep at 3am and woke up around 1pm. Then I watched "Nothing Like The Holidays".
Last night some people were talking about going out today. I guess they changed their mind.
It takes me forever to decide where I want to eat. I just end up going to the same places over and over. I want to try new places but the language barrier is a major issue. Most places only speak Korean, the menu is in korean, and there are no pictures so its hard. I end up going to the westernized restaurants like burger king and popeyes. I also go to places like Wips and Lotteria which have a picture menu. I also like Pizza School where they understand when I say Pepperoni and a medium pizza is only 5,000 won! There is another restuarant that I like where I know how to say one thing on the menu-out of all the restaurants its the only healthy thing! I think once I move I'm going to make a point to make some korean friends and get them to show me places to eat.
Next weekend Im going to a Korean wedding with my friend Michelle from work. She's the person who took me snowboarding. We are going to a wedding then going to celebrate her mom's birthday. It will be really neat to see what their weddings are like.
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Day 44
Day 44 January 30, 2009 Friday
I hate Fridays! There isn't enough material to last 75 minutes.
In my first class the students always move ahead. I'm trying to do the lesson and they are almost through.Today we were talking about art projects.
My second class doesnt like to listen. While I'm explaining things they talk to each other. Then they ask me questions because they weren't listening. The directions are simple but it comes time to go over the answers and they say "i dont know". I want to say-if you were paying attention then you would know!!
I had to end my 2nd class early so they could have an awards ceremony. 3 of my students got awards. In my first class there was a girl who got highest vocabulary score and one student got top of the level which means he scored the highests on the midterm.
I think my 3rd class is the least favorite in terms of the curiculum. All we have to do is read 3 articles in a student newspaper and do workbook exercises. Today we talked about Obama, Birds of a feather flock together, and there is this stupid diary section. The material is way too short. I dont know how to make it last longer-the articles are short. we read it together, I ask questions, then we do workbook exercises. Then I end up giving them a word search for the last 30 minutes of class.
My 4th class is where I have the problem child. He just won't behave. I have to tell him things over and over. I even write rules on the board and I have to keep pointing to the rule when he breaks it. Today he was getting loud and the other foreign teacher came over and asked him to be quiet. I always bring a word search on Friday and he knows that I have one. He keeps asking for it and I tell him he doesnt get it unless he is good. Then I gave one to the girl but I made him finish his work before I gave him the word search. He didn't want to do the last page of work but I just stood there and waited for him to write down something.
One of the korean teachers told me that the 2 boys in my last class are moving to one of my other classes. Ok so now the problem children are moving to the class that doesnt like to listen. great. So now i will have the girl by herself like it was for a while. At least she will have a better chance to learn without all the constant interruptions.
Today after class me and 2 other foreign teachers went out to eat with the korean elementary teachers. We went to a restaurant called Longos. They said it was an Italian restaurant but I dont know. I think it was more of a steakhouse. I liked the salad bar. they had watermelon and I liked the fruit salad-it was apple slices in some mayo based sauce. I had steak-new york strib (200g)(7oz) for dinner. (I didn't write that wrong--thats how it was listed in the menu..New York Strib)(haha)It usually costed 25,000 won which is a bit pricey. They were having some kind of promotion and we got a 50% discount. One of the foreign teachers paid for mine since he owed me some money anyway. We stayed there a long time talking about a lot of things mostly school related. They were talking about students, teachers, classes, etc. Afterwards we went to Wa-bar. They had beer and alcoholic drinks and I got a non alcoholic pina colada. It was good. We stayed there for a while then some of them decided to go downtown. I decided I didnt want to.
I get to sleep in tomorrow!!
I hate Fridays! There isn't enough material to last 75 minutes.
In my first class the students always move ahead. I'm trying to do the lesson and they are almost through.Today we were talking about art projects.
My second class doesnt like to listen. While I'm explaining things they talk to each other. Then they ask me questions because they weren't listening. The directions are simple but it comes time to go over the answers and they say "i dont know". I want to say-if you were paying attention then you would know!!
I had to end my 2nd class early so they could have an awards ceremony. 3 of my students got awards. In my first class there was a girl who got highest vocabulary score and one student got top of the level which means he scored the highests on the midterm.
I think my 3rd class is the least favorite in terms of the curiculum. All we have to do is read 3 articles in a student newspaper and do workbook exercises. Today we talked about Obama, Birds of a feather flock together, and there is this stupid diary section. The material is way too short. I dont know how to make it last longer-the articles are short. we read it together, I ask questions, then we do workbook exercises. Then I end up giving them a word search for the last 30 minutes of class.
My 4th class is where I have the problem child. He just won't behave. I have to tell him things over and over. I even write rules on the board and I have to keep pointing to the rule when he breaks it. Today he was getting loud and the other foreign teacher came over and asked him to be quiet. I always bring a word search on Friday and he knows that I have one. He keeps asking for it and I tell him he doesnt get it unless he is good. Then I gave one to the girl but I made him finish his work before I gave him the word search. He didn't want to do the last page of work but I just stood there and waited for him to write down something.
One of the korean teachers told me that the 2 boys in my last class are moving to one of my other classes. Ok so now the problem children are moving to the class that doesnt like to listen. great. So now i will have the girl by herself like it was for a while. At least she will have a better chance to learn without all the constant interruptions.
Today after class me and 2 other foreign teachers went out to eat with the korean elementary teachers. We went to a restaurant called Longos. They said it was an Italian restaurant but I dont know. I think it was more of a steakhouse. I liked the salad bar. they had watermelon and I liked the fruit salad-it was apple slices in some mayo based sauce. I had steak-new york strib (200g)(7oz) for dinner. (I didn't write that wrong--thats how it was listed in the menu..New York Strib)(haha)It usually costed 25,000 won which is a bit pricey. They were having some kind of promotion and we got a 50% discount. One of the foreign teachers paid for mine since he owed me some money anyway. We stayed there a long time talking about a lot of things mostly school related. They were talking about students, teachers, classes, etc. Afterwards we went to Wa-bar. They had beer and alcoholic drinks and I got a non alcoholic pina colada. It was good. We stayed there for a while then some of them decided to go downtown. I decided I didnt want to.
I get to sleep in tomorrow!!
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Day 43 Its 2pm baby
Day 43 January 29, 2009 Thursday
Today I had to be back at school at 9am. The last time I will have to be at school at 9am this semester. Tomorrow I have to be at school at 10:30am.
Today was just a normal day at school.
My first class is a great class. They are very well behaved and always do their work. I never have a problem with them.
My 2nd class is another story! They are loud everyday. I have to tell them to be quiet constantly. Im seriously going to have to start assigning dentention to the loud students. Today we had a shorter version of class because there was an awards ceremony going on at 3pm. We ended class a about 10 mins before I should have. I was doing the last part of the lesson and the students kept telling me that they had to go downstairs at 2:50 we didnt need to leave the room till close to 3pm. so I ended class early. 2 of the girls changed their English names. They get to make up their own English name to use for class and they decided they wanted to change theirs midway through the semester. One of them wants to be Jenny and the other one wants to be Jennifer. the 3 girls in the class wanted to take pictures of me with their cell phones again. They also asked me a lot of questions about myself like my age, where im from, favorite color, etc. Then at 3pm we went to the auditorium where they were awarded for who got the highest grades on the midterm and vocabulary test. 2 of my students got awards. The ceremony lasted about 10 minutes.
My last class is great also. there are only 3 people in the class. 2 boys and one girl and they are very well behaved and always do their work.
The 2 guys are always saying "its 2pm baby". they say it at least 10 times every class so I asked them what it was. 2pm is the name of a band.
I'm going out to eat with the korean elementary teachers tomorrow.
I talked to my recruiter. Monday I may have an interview with the director from a preschool in Nowan. I need to get my documents together for moving to a new school. I'm waiting on my mom to send my transcripts. I found out I have to go get another health check. oh my. at least I know what to expect now. I dont understand why I need a new one though. you must need one for every school you go to.
One of the korean middle school teachers wanted to hangout on Sunday. She wanted to go to the DMZ. I gave her the info and she was going to call about it. She can't go with me. Koreans can't go to the DMZ. thats odd-she says its probably because some Koreans might try to cross over into North Korea. She's never been and she wanted to go. I'm still going sometime soon. Probably when it gets warm. I'm going to go with the USO tour because I've heard its the best tour group to go with. Its a bit pricey at $44 but I think it will be worth it.
Tonight I am trying out voice chat on Skype with my mom and sister.
tomorrow is payday! I get 2/3 of my salary through direct deposit. I got a 1/3 advance last month. I hope we get a pay stub so I can see where my money is going. If not Im going to ask for one.
Today I had to be back at school at 9am. The last time I will have to be at school at 9am this semester. Tomorrow I have to be at school at 10:30am.
Today was just a normal day at school.
My first class is a great class. They are very well behaved and always do their work. I never have a problem with them.
My 2nd class is another story! They are loud everyday. I have to tell them to be quiet constantly. Im seriously going to have to start assigning dentention to the loud students. Today we had a shorter version of class because there was an awards ceremony going on at 3pm. We ended class a about 10 mins before I should have. I was doing the last part of the lesson and the students kept telling me that they had to go downstairs at 2:50 we didnt need to leave the room till close to 3pm. so I ended class early. 2 of the girls changed their English names. They get to make up their own English name to use for class and they decided they wanted to change theirs midway through the semester. One of them wants to be Jenny and the other one wants to be Jennifer. the 3 girls in the class wanted to take pictures of me with their cell phones again. They also asked me a lot of questions about myself like my age, where im from, favorite color, etc. Then at 3pm we went to the auditorium where they were awarded for who got the highest grades on the midterm and vocabulary test. 2 of my students got awards. The ceremony lasted about 10 minutes.
My last class is great also. there are only 3 people in the class. 2 boys and one girl and they are very well behaved and always do their work.
The 2 guys are always saying "its 2pm baby". they say it at least 10 times every class so I asked them what it was. 2pm is the name of a band.
I'm going out to eat with the korean elementary teachers tomorrow.
I talked to my recruiter. Monday I may have an interview with the director from a preschool in Nowan. I need to get my documents together for moving to a new school. I'm waiting on my mom to send my transcripts. I found out I have to go get another health check. oh my. at least I know what to expect now. I dont understand why I need a new one though. you must need one for every school you go to.
One of the korean middle school teachers wanted to hangout on Sunday. She wanted to go to the DMZ. I gave her the info and she was going to call about it. She can't go with me. Koreans can't go to the DMZ. thats odd-she says its probably because some Koreans might try to cross over into North Korea. She's never been and she wanted to go. I'm still going sometime soon. Probably when it gets warm. I'm going to go with the USO tour because I've heard its the best tour group to go with. Its a bit pricey at $44 but I think it will be worth it.
Tonight I am trying out voice chat on Skype with my mom and sister.
tomorrow is payday! I get 2/3 of my salary through direct deposit. I got a 1/3 advance last month. I hope we get a pay stub so I can see where my money is going. If not Im going to ask for one.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Day 42
Day 42 January 28 2000 Wednesday
I've been here six weeks. 56 more to go. I hope they pass that quickly. Really! I am ready to be back in America. If I had the money I'd be coming home early, but I know thats not an option. Its not a good idea when the economy is so bad in America. If I couldn't find a decent job after getting laid off in 2007 then I know I wouldn't find one now esp when everyone is having trouble financially. At least I will have a chance to save up while Im here so I can buy a nice car when I get back to America next year.
4 more weeks of teaching at Avalon. Then I start my new contract somewhere else. where? I have no clue. Maybe teaching preschoolers which will be a lot of fun. Challenging but fun. Then I have a whole year to go. I was counting down but now Im counting up. not fun.
Yesterday I watched some movies: The House Bunny, Bride Wars, and My Best Friend's girl.
Today I had to go back to school after a 4 day weekend. I didnt have to be at school till 10:30 so that was good. Tomorrow I have to be there at 9am. Only 2 more days left of working days then I go back to working nights.
2 more days and its the weekend again!!
It was just a normal day of school. Nothing worth mentioning.
Today I taught about an animal band, kickboxing, and the first day of school. In one of my classes we were talking about the kids first day at Avalon. The only boy in the class said he doesn't like Avalon because he is the only boy in the class. He is in there with 2 girls.
It was actually warmer today which was nice. It got up to 44 degrees!
I've been here six weeks. 56 more to go. I hope they pass that quickly. Really! I am ready to be back in America. If I had the money I'd be coming home early, but I know thats not an option. Its not a good idea when the economy is so bad in America. If I couldn't find a decent job after getting laid off in 2007 then I know I wouldn't find one now esp when everyone is having trouble financially. At least I will have a chance to save up while Im here so I can buy a nice car when I get back to America next year.
4 more weeks of teaching at Avalon. Then I start my new contract somewhere else. where? I have no clue. Maybe teaching preschoolers which will be a lot of fun. Challenging but fun. Then I have a whole year to go. I was counting down but now Im counting up. not fun.
Yesterday I watched some movies: The House Bunny, Bride Wars, and My Best Friend's girl.
Today I had to go back to school after a 4 day weekend. I didnt have to be at school till 10:30 so that was good. Tomorrow I have to be there at 9am. Only 2 more days left of working days then I go back to working nights.
2 more days and its the weekend again!!
It was just a normal day of school. Nothing worth mentioning.
Today I taught about an animal band, kickboxing, and the first day of school. In one of my classes we were talking about the kids first day at Avalon. The only boy in the class said he doesn't like Avalon because he is the only boy in the class. He is in there with 2 girls.
It was actually warmer today which was nice. It got up to 44 degrees!
Monday, January 26, 2009
day 40
Day 40 Monday January 26
I'm going to die from smoke inhalation...really....so many people smoke around here...but early this morn it was almost a reality.
I thought our apartment was going to burn down. I was sitting in my room and I started to smell smoke a little then the smell got stronger. I knew it wasn't anything in my room so I opened the door to see what was going on.
The hall was full of smoke. I put on my coat and grabbed my bookbag bc it had all my important documents and phone. I went down to the second floor and saw someone's door open. I guess all the smoke was coming from that room where the door was open. I walked down to the first floor and there was no smoke there.
I opened a lot of the windows in the halls...then when I got back my room was full of smoke so I had to open my windows. I had to go outside to get some fresh air.
I'm glad I can smell. If I couldn't then I would burn up if there was a real fire. We don't have sprinklers or even a fire alarm in the building! Thats the bad thing about living in a foreign country...a lot of safety things aren't required.
They won't even put fire alarms in buildings but they will put a warning on the stairs in the subway that says "warning: steps ahead"--yes that is above the stairs!! once you're halfway down they decide to let you know that you are walking down stairs just in case you didn't know.
I watched 2 of the 3 episodes of The Bachelor. I need to download the 3rd episode. I only found one file for the 3rd episode and it wouldn't open. maybe someone will post it later. I hope the PC cafe is open today.
I'm going to die from smoke inhalation...really....so many people smoke around here...but early this morn it was almost a reality.
I thought our apartment was going to burn down. I was sitting in my room and I started to smell smoke a little then the smell got stronger. I knew it wasn't anything in my room so I opened the door to see what was going on.
The hall was full of smoke. I put on my coat and grabbed my bookbag bc it had all my important documents and phone. I went down to the second floor and saw someone's door open. I guess all the smoke was coming from that room where the door was open. I walked down to the first floor and there was no smoke there.
I opened a lot of the windows in the halls...then when I got back my room was full of smoke so I had to open my windows. I had to go outside to get some fresh air.
I'm glad I can smell. If I couldn't then I would burn up if there was a real fire. We don't have sprinklers or even a fire alarm in the building! Thats the bad thing about living in a foreign country...a lot of safety things aren't required.
They won't even put fire alarms in buildings but they will put a warning on the stairs in the subway that says "warning: steps ahead"--yes that is above the stairs!! once you're halfway down they decide to let you know that you are walking down stairs just in case you didn't know.
I watched 2 of the 3 episodes of The Bachelor. I need to download the 3rd episode. I only found one file for the 3rd episode and it wouldn't open. maybe someone will post it later. I hope the PC cafe is open today.
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Day 39--Jan 25
Jan 25 Sunday
Its been snowing off and on yesterday and today..it was snowing just a few minutes ago before I came to the PC cafe. Not much has accumulated but there are short spurts of snow every once and a while.
The rivers are frozen and covered with snow. Today I saw kids playing on the river.
Last night I downloaded some movies from a site called Pirate Bay. Today I watched "Nights In Rodanthe". It wasn't as good as all of Nicholas Spark's movies. It was okay but not as good as "A Walk to Remember" and "The Notebook". I actually liked the book better. I also downloaded "Seven Pounds", 2 episodes of "Ugly Betty". Tonight I'm going to download some more movies so I'll have something to do on Monday and Tuesday since I've heard that Monday nothing will be open.
Today I actually ventured out past my 10 minute walk by myself. I've always went with my 2 teacher friends. Today I was bored and decided I would go to Central Tower.
I took the bus to central tower. I got off way before my stop. I still don't really know where to get off for the subway exit but I got off and had a nice distance to walk. Its okay. I need the exercise. The bus wasnt crowded today like it always is. I actually got a seat.
I stopped at the subway station to add 20,000 won to my t-money card so I can use it for my subway/bus trips.
Then I went to central tower. I ate at KFC. I got a burger and chicken combo-chicken sandwich, drumstick and a drink for 6,300 won. They call the chicken sandwich a burger. The sandwich was spicy! I asked for it to not be spicy but oh well. I also got a drumstick-orginal recipe. the chicken was good. The sandwich was good too but just spicy!
I went up to the 14th floor to see what was playing at the movie theather. The only thing I recognized was "Changling". I didnt want to wait almost 2 hrs to see it. I got there at 6pm and it started at 7:50. I want to see "He's Just Not that into you". It comes out soon in Febuary.
I also went to Amusing World (the gaming place). All I did was check my email. I wanted to play darts but everytime I went back there there was always someone at every station. I didnt stay there long. Its just not fun to go by yourself.
Then I took the bus home-I used my T-money card for the first time. You scan it when you get on and when you get off. Its 900 won for the initial ride then I think it charges 100 won for additional distance past a certian point. I dont really know. I know where to get off. The stop right before Home Plus.
And now Im at the PC cafe. I still need to stop by Home Plus to pick up something to eat tomorrow. I have plenty of rice. I just need some meat to eat with it.
Its been snowing off and on yesterday and today..it was snowing just a few minutes ago before I came to the PC cafe. Not much has accumulated but there are short spurts of snow every once and a while.
The rivers are frozen and covered with snow. Today I saw kids playing on the river.
Last night I downloaded some movies from a site called Pirate Bay. Today I watched "Nights In Rodanthe". It wasn't as good as all of Nicholas Spark's movies. It was okay but not as good as "A Walk to Remember" and "The Notebook". I actually liked the book better. I also downloaded "Seven Pounds", 2 episodes of "Ugly Betty". Tonight I'm going to download some more movies so I'll have something to do on Monday and Tuesday since I've heard that Monday nothing will be open.
Today I actually ventured out past my 10 minute walk by myself. I've always went with my 2 teacher friends. Today I was bored and decided I would go to Central Tower.
I took the bus to central tower. I got off way before my stop. I still don't really know where to get off for the subway exit but I got off and had a nice distance to walk. Its okay. I need the exercise. The bus wasnt crowded today like it always is. I actually got a seat.
I stopped at the subway station to add 20,000 won to my t-money card so I can use it for my subway/bus trips.
Then I went to central tower. I ate at KFC. I got a burger and chicken combo-chicken sandwich, drumstick and a drink for 6,300 won. They call the chicken sandwich a burger. The sandwich was spicy! I asked for it to not be spicy but oh well. I also got a drumstick-orginal recipe. the chicken was good. The sandwich was good too but just spicy!
I went up to the 14th floor to see what was playing at the movie theather. The only thing I recognized was "Changling". I didnt want to wait almost 2 hrs to see it. I got there at 6pm and it started at 7:50. I want to see "He's Just Not that into you". It comes out soon in Febuary.
I also went to Amusing World (the gaming place). All I did was check my email. I wanted to play darts but everytime I went back there there was always someone at every station. I didnt stay there long. Its just not fun to go by yourself.
Then I took the bus home-I used my T-money card for the first time. You scan it when you get on and when you get off. Its 900 won for the initial ride then I think it charges 100 won for additional distance past a certian point. I dont really know. I know where to get off. The stop right before Home Plus.
And now Im at the PC cafe. I still need to stop by Home Plus to pick up something to eat tomorrow. I have plenty of rice. I just need some meat to eat with it.
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Days 38-41--Holiday--Lunar New Year
Days 38-41 January 24-27 2009
We got a little bit of snow this morning...just a tiny bit...just barely covering the ground....3rd time this winter...I've never seen snow 3 times in one winter!
Seol-nal (Lunar New Year)
The Lunar New Year holiday, also known elsewhere as Chinese New year, is second in importance only to Chuseok (the Harvest Moon Festival). Every year, family members make a grand pilgrimage to their hometowns. During the 3-day period, Seoul is almost deserted a most people leave the city to return to their ancestral roots.
Although many of the younger generation take advantage of the time off to go skiing or travel abroad, Korea's roads, railways, and skies are full of homeward bound travelers. People line up for hours when the bus and train tickets go on sale, about 3 months prior to the holidays. For those masochistic enough to try driving, taking over 24 hours to drive from Seoul to Busan is not unheard of! (Normally, it takes 5-6 hours. However, the family bond runs deep in Korea culture, and it seems that people gladly make the journey.
Family and Ancestor Worship
During the 3-day holiday, families go to their hometowns and visit relatives, bringing expensive gifts of food and drink. They usually stay with the head of the family (usually the eldest male in the family). The children and grandchildren perform saebae (bowing and paying respect to ones elders). If they do a good job, they are rewarded with envelopes of money.
The first thing in the morning, everyone cleanses their bodies then dress in their best hanbok (traditional Korean clothes). Together, the extended family performs ch'arye (a ceremony to commemorate their ancestors).
Afterwards, they trek to the ancestral gravesite for a grand picnic (although in the past, generally only the men would go, but this tradition has changed recently.). The females of the family have spent days and a minor fortune (the average cost per family is over W100,00) to prepare the Lunar New Year's sacrificial food. At the gravesite, the food and alcohol is placed around the graves in offering to the family's ancestral spirits. After a period of sang-myo (bowing and paying respects to their ancestors), the family enjoys the meal and drink.
Traditions
One New Year's Day, one should eat ddeok-guk (rice cake soup) for good luck. Children are told that they will not grow any older unless they eat their ddeok-guk. The soup is made by diagonally slicing sausage shaped rice cakes into thin, oval slices. The rice cake slices are soaked in water, then boiled in beef broth. The soup is garnished with chives, seaweed, and egg.
Throughout the first month of the lunar calendar, villagers hold ceremonies and events asking the spirits for fortune and peace in the coming year. While some of the rites are performed only by females, others involve the entire village, such as offerings to the Earth spirit.
On New Year's Day of the lunar calendar, after villagers have shown respect to their family members and visited their ancestral tombs, they will gather to enjoy a farmers band and pay respect and tribute to the Earth spirit. First they will visit the home of the wealthiest villager who entertains them with food and drink. All the village members then dance around the yard and through the house and any other buildings on the property, singing songs to the Earth spirit. The songs ask that the family and home be blessed with fortune and prosperity in the coming year. Afterwards, they move on to the next house and continue on until all the homes had been visited. If the Earth spirit is pleased with these activities, he will endow the people with many rewards throughout the year.
Traditionally, people would stay awake on the night before New Year's Day. Records indicate that the court held narye (exorcising ceremonies) to expel any evil spirits. Ten dancers in Ch'oyong masks danced to a musical accompaniment. In rural areas, a musical performance of nong-ak (farmers' music) was also used to expel evil spirits and usher in good fortune
We got a little bit of snow this morning...just a tiny bit...just barely covering the ground....3rd time this winter...I've never seen snow 3 times in one winter!
Seol-nal (Lunar New Year)
The Lunar New Year holiday, also known elsewhere as Chinese New year, is second in importance only to Chuseok (the Harvest Moon Festival). Every year, family members make a grand pilgrimage to their hometowns. During the 3-day period, Seoul is almost deserted a most people leave the city to return to their ancestral roots.
Although many of the younger generation take advantage of the time off to go skiing or travel abroad, Korea's roads, railways, and skies are full of homeward bound travelers. People line up for hours when the bus and train tickets go on sale, about 3 months prior to the holidays. For those masochistic enough to try driving, taking over 24 hours to drive from Seoul to Busan is not unheard of! (Normally, it takes 5-6 hours. However, the family bond runs deep in Korea culture, and it seems that people gladly make the journey.
Family and Ancestor Worship
During the 3-day holiday, families go to their hometowns and visit relatives, bringing expensive gifts of food and drink. They usually stay with the head of the family (usually the eldest male in the family). The children and grandchildren perform saebae (bowing and paying respect to ones elders). If they do a good job, they are rewarded with envelopes of money.
The first thing in the morning, everyone cleanses their bodies then dress in their best hanbok (traditional Korean clothes). Together, the extended family performs ch'arye (a ceremony to commemorate their ancestors).
Afterwards, they trek to the ancestral gravesite for a grand picnic (although in the past, generally only the men would go, but this tradition has changed recently.). The females of the family have spent days and a minor fortune (the average cost per family is over W100,00) to prepare the Lunar New Year's sacrificial food. At the gravesite, the food and alcohol is placed around the graves in offering to the family's ancestral spirits. After a period of sang-myo (bowing and paying respects to their ancestors), the family enjoys the meal and drink.
Traditions
One New Year's Day, one should eat ddeok-guk (rice cake soup) for good luck. Children are told that they will not grow any older unless they eat their ddeok-guk. The soup is made by diagonally slicing sausage shaped rice cakes into thin, oval slices. The rice cake slices are soaked in water, then boiled in beef broth. The soup is garnished with chives, seaweed, and egg.
Throughout the first month of the lunar calendar, villagers hold ceremonies and events asking the spirits for fortune and peace in the coming year. While some of the rites are performed only by females, others involve the entire village, such as offerings to the Earth spirit.
On New Year's Day of the lunar calendar, after villagers have shown respect to their family members and visited their ancestral tombs, they will gather to enjoy a farmers band and pay respect and tribute to the Earth spirit. First they will visit the home of the wealthiest villager who entertains them with food and drink. All the village members then dance around the yard and through the house and any other buildings on the property, singing songs to the Earth spirit. The songs ask that the family and home be blessed with fortune and prosperity in the coming year. Afterwards, they move on to the next house and continue on until all the homes had been visited. If the Earth spirit is pleased with these activities, he will endow the people with many rewards throughout the year.
Traditionally, people would stay awake on the night before New Year's Day. Records indicate that the court held narye (exorcising ceremonies) to expel any evil spirits. Ten dancers in Ch'oyong masks danced to a musical accompaniment. In rural areas, a musical performance of nong-ak (farmers' music) was also used to expel evil spirits and usher in good fortune
Friday, January 23, 2009
Day 37- I got a package!
Day 37 Jan 23 Friday
It was really cold on our walk to school today. It was so mild last night and then its very cold this morning. colder than its been all week.
I got a package from my mom today. It arrived on Wednesday but they took it to the post office since I wasnt home. A girl from school called them on Thursday and asked them to deliver the package to the school. I went home and opened it after school--she sent sweatshirts, an iron, a dress, a headset for skype, and OREOS!!
so Friday is my least favorite teaching day. The lessons are way too short for a 75 minute class. I only have to teach 5 more!
we had to be a school at 10:30am. I used my time before class to prepare for the classes which meant--make extra material like word searches! I use words from the lessons we cover today. I went to lunch at 11:40 and got back right in time for classes. I was going to take the elevator but the students got there at the same time so the elevator was full of children. I took the stairs to the 5th floor. I was so tired and out of breath after 5 flights of stairs! I really need to get into shape!
In my first class the material is too simple and short. I try to get them to do it together as a class but everyone moves ahead. some of them are donee by the time we are halfway through going over the lesson. There isnt really anything to teach. Its just listening and repeating and doing short exercises. Today we were talking about going to the park. We had a part where they had to draw the park. all the students enjoy the drawing exercise. Some of them spend a lot of time on the drawing. I had 2 students who kept erasing and starting over again. They liked drawing big long tube slides. One of them liked making slides where the kids would just fall from the sky and die. the slide dumped them out on the ground. I asked him if he had something to catch them at the bottom. he said no. they just fall out and die. okay! Then they love when I give them a word search. I have to put a lot of words on it so it will keep them occupied since I dont have enough material to teach! After class one of the students gave everyone candy. or at least thats what I think it is!
In my 2nd class I had to do a review. I was thinking I'd have to teach lesson 5 then I looked at the syllabus and found out I had to teach a review. I hate doing reviews esp when they aren't even being tested on the Friday material. This book only has 8 lessons so I have to have 2 review classes since there are 10 Friday classes. I wish they would find material that had 10 lessons in it. I know the review is boring for the students. I just went through the lessons and gave them examples to refresh their memories then wrote things on the board and got them to fix the mistakes. I gave them a word search to take home with them.
In the 3rd class we went over the student newspaper. We learned about "China's Hero Pig", Chung woo sung in American Drama called "City Hunter", and "Age of Discovery and Exploration" about columbus and magellan. We just read the articles and I ask them questions and they do short exercises in a workbook. I personally think its a waste of time. We were finished with the 3 short articles in 40 mins so we did a word search for the other 30 mins.
The last class was pretty good. We reviewed but we also talked about stuff not related to the lesson. The boy was really well behaved today!! We were talking about Christmas cards and he was singing "we wish you a merry christmas"..haha. He's only in 2nd grade but his english is really good. While we were reviewing they asked a lot of questions like what is rush, what is a tourist information center, what is a double decker bus, what is hope, etc. I have to explain a lot of things. I gave them a word search at the end of class. I finished the word search quickly. they kept comparing how many they had found.
Then I tried to rush out of school because my recruiter set up an interview on the phone at 6pm with the preschool. So I packed up my stuff and left really quickly. One of the korean teachers offered to take me home since she lives 3 buildings away from me. her mom picked us up. that was nice because I had that big box that my mom sent and another present from the school. The school gave us this set that has a lot of ham in it for new years. Its a box with sausage and 2 kinds of ham. I wish i knew how to cook it. I really dont want to waste it.
4 day weekend!! They celebrate Lunar New Year this weekend which means I dont have to school on Monday or Tuesday!! Im going to rest. THe only bad thing is most things are closed for the holiday. I think almost everything is closed on Monday which is the actual Lunar new year.
The school never called. I'll have to ask my recruiter why. maybe he will reschedule.
I was so tired tonight. i took a nap then got up and went to get something to eat.
I went to Outback Steakhouse. Is really expensive but oh well. Both of the people who were my servers spoke English. I guess the first one's shift ended and someone took over. I decided to get the Outback Sirloin. It came with corn soup. That was interesting. it was actually pretty good. I got fries and coconut onion rings as my 2 sides. the steak was good. My meal was 30,000 won in all.
at 11:54pm its currently 12 degrees! it feels like 5 degrees with the windchill. oh my goodness!!
It was really cold on our walk to school today. It was so mild last night and then its very cold this morning. colder than its been all week.
I got a package from my mom today. It arrived on Wednesday but they took it to the post office since I wasnt home. A girl from school called them on Thursday and asked them to deliver the package to the school. I went home and opened it after school--she sent sweatshirts, an iron, a dress, a headset for skype, and OREOS!!
so Friday is my least favorite teaching day. The lessons are way too short for a 75 minute class. I only have to teach 5 more!
we had to be a school at 10:30am. I used my time before class to prepare for the classes which meant--make extra material like word searches! I use words from the lessons we cover today. I went to lunch at 11:40 and got back right in time for classes. I was going to take the elevator but the students got there at the same time so the elevator was full of children. I took the stairs to the 5th floor. I was so tired and out of breath after 5 flights of stairs! I really need to get into shape!
In my first class the material is too simple and short. I try to get them to do it together as a class but everyone moves ahead. some of them are donee by the time we are halfway through going over the lesson. There isnt really anything to teach. Its just listening and repeating and doing short exercises. Today we were talking about going to the park. We had a part where they had to draw the park. all the students enjoy the drawing exercise. Some of them spend a lot of time on the drawing. I had 2 students who kept erasing and starting over again. They liked drawing big long tube slides. One of them liked making slides where the kids would just fall from the sky and die. the slide dumped them out on the ground. I asked him if he had something to catch them at the bottom. he said no. they just fall out and die. okay! Then they love when I give them a word search. I have to put a lot of words on it so it will keep them occupied since I dont have enough material to teach! After class one of the students gave everyone candy. or at least thats what I think it is!
In my 2nd class I had to do a review. I was thinking I'd have to teach lesson 5 then I looked at the syllabus and found out I had to teach a review. I hate doing reviews esp when they aren't even being tested on the Friday material. This book only has 8 lessons so I have to have 2 review classes since there are 10 Friday classes. I wish they would find material that had 10 lessons in it. I know the review is boring for the students. I just went through the lessons and gave them examples to refresh their memories then wrote things on the board and got them to fix the mistakes. I gave them a word search to take home with them.
In the 3rd class we went over the student newspaper. We learned about "China's Hero Pig", Chung woo sung in American Drama called "City Hunter", and "Age of Discovery and Exploration" about columbus and magellan. We just read the articles and I ask them questions and they do short exercises in a workbook. I personally think its a waste of time. We were finished with the 3 short articles in 40 mins so we did a word search for the other 30 mins.
The last class was pretty good. We reviewed but we also talked about stuff not related to the lesson. The boy was really well behaved today!! We were talking about Christmas cards and he was singing "we wish you a merry christmas"..haha. He's only in 2nd grade but his english is really good. While we were reviewing they asked a lot of questions like what is rush, what is a tourist information center, what is a double decker bus, what is hope, etc. I have to explain a lot of things. I gave them a word search at the end of class. I finished the word search quickly. they kept comparing how many they had found.
Then I tried to rush out of school because my recruiter set up an interview on the phone at 6pm with the preschool. So I packed up my stuff and left really quickly. One of the korean teachers offered to take me home since she lives 3 buildings away from me. her mom picked us up. that was nice because I had that big box that my mom sent and another present from the school. The school gave us this set that has a lot of ham in it for new years. Its a box with sausage and 2 kinds of ham. I wish i knew how to cook it. I really dont want to waste it.
4 day weekend!! They celebrate Lunar New Year this weekend which means I dont have to school on Monday or Tuesday!! Im going to rest. THe only bad thing is most things are closed for the holiday. I think almost everything is closed on Monday which is the actual Lunar new year.
The school never called. I'll have to ask my recruiter why. maybe he will reschedule.
I was so tired tonight. i took a nap then got up and went to get something to eat.
I went to Outback Steakhouse. Is really expensive but oh well. Both of the people who were my servers spoke English. I guess the first one's shift ended and someone took over. I decided to get the Outback Sirloin. It came with corn soup. That was interesting. it was actually pretty good. I got fries and coconut onion rings as my 2 sides. the steak was good. My meal was 30,000 won in all.
at 11:54pm its currently 12 degrees! it feels like 5 degrees with the windchill. oh my goodness!!
Day 36 January 22
day 36 Jan 22, 2009 Thursday
The teacher that got fired moved out today. He's moving closer to Seoul. I saw him in the morning before he left.
Today I had to teach 2 lessons in each class too. I only finished all of the lessons in 1 class. The lessons in the last class are too short even with having to do 2 lessons! My last class is a good class. I only have 3 students.
In my 2nd class 3 of the girls wanted to take pictures of me on their cell phones before class so i let them. My second class likes to talk to each other. I have to tell them to be quiet a lot. One of the girls in my class gave me a gift (for new years)(Lunar new year is this weekend). She also gave one to her korean teacher. She told me her mom made it. It was homemade soap. one was blue and has a bell shape on it. the other one is green and says I love you. She told me she made the box. and she wrote me a note. The note said: Teachear! Hi! I'm Emma. This gift is my mother make soap. and this box is me make pretty! Happ New Year! The English isn't good but I know what she's trying to say. how sweet.
The teacher that got fired moved out today. He's moving closer to Seoul. I saw him in the morning before he left.
Today I had to teach 2 lessons in each class too. I only finished all of the lessons in 1 class. The lessons in the last class are too short even with having to do 2 lessons! My last class is a good class. I only have 3 students.
In my 2nd class 3 of the girls wanted to take pictures of me on their cell phones before class so i let them. My second class likes to talk to each other. I have to tell them to be quiet a lot. One of the girls in my class gave me a gift (for new years)(Lunar new year is this weekend). She also gave one to her korean teacher. She told me her mom made it. It was homemade soap. one was blue and has a bell shape on it. the other one is green and says I love you. She told me she made the box. and she wrote me a note. The note said: Teachear! Hi! I'm Emma. This gift is my mother make soap. and this box is me make pretty! Happ New Year! The English isn't good but I know what she's trying to say. how sweet.
I had to do 3 speaking tests for middle school students today. They all did pretty good. They have some problems with their grammer but pretty good overall. I could understand what they meant. I had them pick 2 pictures and tell me 5 sentences about each picture. I had to write down what they said and give them a grade of 2 for good, 1 for okay or 0 for doesnt make sense. all of them had at least one sentence that didnt make sense. The highest score they could make was a 10. The lowest score was 5.5 and the highest was a 7.
Day 35 Jan 21
Day 35 January 21, 2009 Wednesday
Today they tried to negoiate with James. I dont know what they tried to offer him but he said they didnt try to negoiate his salary. I was wondering why they didnt try to negotiate with me but he told me that he told him not to even bother because I had made up my mind. Thats right. Dont even try!!
Classes were good today. I had to teach 2 lessons in all of my classes since they will miss a day next week due to a holiday. The students dont like doing 2 lessons. They asked "why are we doing 2 lessons" I told them I had to do 2 lessons since we were going to miss a day next week.
I had a problem with one of the classes. One of the boys in the class was wearing his hood during class. some of the other boys wanted him to take it off. I asked him if he would take it off then 3 of the boys ganged up on him and tried to take it off. One of the boys ended up accidentally pulling his hair and making him cry. I made the 3 boys say they were sorry and I asked him if he was okay. I just let him keep his hood on for the rest of class.
I hate teaching 2 lessons in one day. One lesson is not long enough but two lessons is too much. I never finish both lessons.
I actually finished the lessons in one class.
My last class was actually better today. I saw the korean teacher downstairs with 2 of the students and she was talking on the phone. I guess she was calling their parents. Thats good if it will make them behave! One of the boys told me that his mom hit him for being bad. I guess thats why he was behaving today. The class was actually good!! They actually followed my rules that I wrote on the board!
In that class I had 5 questions to ask and 3 students so 2 of them got 2 questions and one only got 1 question to answer. After I got finished with the 5 questions he looked disappointed and he said "I want a question too". ha. So I made up a question for him. At the end of class the 2 second graders sang me a song. They were singing about "I have a dream".
Today they tried to negoiate with James. I dont know what they tried to offer him but he said they didnt try to negoiate his salary. I was wondering why they didnt try to negotiate with me but he told me that he told him not to even bother because I had made up my mind. Thats right. Dont even try!!
Classes were good today. I had to teach 2 lessons in all of my classes since they will miss a day next week due to a holiday. The students dont like doing 2 lessons. They asked "why are we doing 2 lessons" I told them I had to do 2 lessons since we were going to miss a day next week.
I had a problem with one of the classes. One of the boys in the class was wearing his hood during class. some of the other boys wanted him to take it off. I asked him if he would take it off then 3 of the boys ganged up on him and tried to take it off. One of the boys ended up accidentally pulling his hair and making him cry. I made the 3 boys say they were sorry and I asked him if he was okay. I just let him keep his hood on for the rest of class.
I hate teaching 2 lessons in one day. One lesson is not long enough but two lessons is too much. I never finish both lessons.
I actually finished the lessons in one class.
My last class was actually better today. I saw the korean teacher downstairs with 2 of the students and she was talking on the phone. I guess she was calling their parents. Thats good if it will make them behave! One of the boys told me that his mom hit him for being bad. I guess thats why he was behaving today. The class was actually good!! They actually followed my rules that I wrote on the board!
In that class I had 5 questions to ask and 3 students so 2 of them got 2 questions and one only got 1 question to answer. After I got finished with the 5 questions he looked disappointed and he said "I want a question too". ha. So I made up a question for him. At the end of class the 2 second graders sang me a song. They were singing about "I have a dream".
Day 34 Resignation letter
Day 34 January 20 Tuesday
I finally talked to my mom today. I sent her my phone number in email and she called me in the morning. I hadn't talked to her since I left on December 16th.
Me and the other foreign teacher, James, had a meeting with our foreign liason today. We both handed in our resignation letters-our 45 day notice. March 6 will be our last day. I think James is still on the fence. He handed in his letter just in case. The foreign liason said that they will try to negoiate with us to try to get us to stay. If James gets a good offer he will stay. I am not staying.
We are resigning because we aren't happy with the way things are going at the school. Its very disorganized and there are so many misunderstandings.
I'm hoping they release me on Feb 27th. I dont see why I need to stay till march 6. The semester ends on Feb 27th.
My recruiter says he has a position he thinks I will like working with preschoolers ages 4-5. I think I will enjoy that. The lessons will have to be very simple and we will probably be playing a lot of games to teach lessons. I think I would enjoy working with little kids. I would be moving to another city. Nowan which is 15 minutes south of where I am now. The only bad thing is that I'll have to be here an extra 2 months since I will be starting a new 1 year contract. So I'll be home in March of 2010.
One of the korean teachers had to come to my class today. My class was being too loud. We were checking answers on the quiz and they were getting excited because they got the answers right. a teacher came over and said something in korean.
I finally talked to my mom today. I sent her my phone number in email and she called me in the morning. I hadn't talked to her since I left on December 16th.
Me and the other foreign teacher, James, had a meeting with our foreign liason today. We both handed in our resignation letters-our 45 day notice. March 6 will be our last day. I think James is still on the fence. He handed in his letter just in case. The foreign liason said that they will try to negoiate with us to try to get us to stay. If James gets a good offer he will stay. I am not staying.
We are resigning because we aren't happy with the way things are going at the school. Its very disorganized and there are so many misunderstandings.
I'm hoping they release me on Feb 27th. I dont see why I need to stay till march 6. The semester ends on Feb 27th.
My recruiter says he has a position he thinks I will like working with preschoolers ages 4-5. I think I will enjoy that. The lessons will have to be very simple and we will probably be playing a lot of games to teach lessons. I think I would enjoy working with little kids. I would be moving to another city. Nowan which is 15 minutes south of where I am now. The only bad thing is that I'll have to be here an extra 2 months since I will be starting a new 1 year contract. So I'll be home in March of 2010.
One of the korean teachers had to come to my class today. My class was being too loud. We were checking answers on the quiz and they were getting excited because they got the answers right. a teacher came over and said something in korean.
Day 33 January 19
Day 33 January 19,2009 Monday
The teacher that skipped school on Friday got fired today. He handed in his resignation letter and then they fired him. He was mad and they were shouting at him right in front of everyone. Very unprofessional. we didnt like the way he was fired. They fired him in the morning so he left before he taught any classes that day. We didnt think it was right to just fire him on the spot. He should have gotten a warning first. Then they got mad when he handed in his formal resignation letter. There are so many misunderstandings there. Thats one reason why we are unhappy.
We had a meeting with our foreign liason and we hinted that we were thinking about resigning.
Later that night me and the other foreign teacher talked and we decided that we were going to hand in our resignation letters tomorrow.We just arent happy with so many misunderstandings and the way that things are handled.
Today I had to give a vocabulary test to all of my classes today. That took up a lot of our classtime. They will award the person in each level who gets the highest score. I dont know what the award is.
all my classes seemed to do good on the test. In my last class one of my trouble makers kept talking during the test. He asked me the meaning of dump. I really shouldn't have told him probably but anyway I explained what it meant to him about 10 times and he didnt know how to write it. So during the test he kept saying dump, dump, dump and spending too much time that one word. I told him to skip it and go to the next one.
The teacher that skipped school on Friday got fired today. He handed in his resignation letter and then they fired him. He was mad and they were shouting at him right in front of everyone. Very unprofessional. we didnt like the way he was fired. They fired him in the morning so he left before he taught any classes that day. We didnt think it was right to just fire him on the spot. He should have gotten a warning first. Then they got mad when he handed in his formal resignation letter. There are so many misunderstandings there. Thats one reason why we are unhappy.
We had a meeting with our foreign liason and we hinted that we were thinking about resigning.
Later that night me and the other foreign teacher talked and we decided that we were going to hand in our resignation letters tomorrow.We just arent happy with so many misunderstandings and the way that things are handled.
Today I had to give a vocabulary test to all of my classes today. That took up a lot of our classtime. They will award the person in each level who gets the highest score. I dont know what the award is.
all my classes seemed to do good on the test. In my last class one of my trouble makers kept talking during the test. He asked me the meaning of dump. I really shouldn't have told him probably but anyway I explained what it meant to him about 10 times and he didnt know how to write it. So during the test he kept saying dump, dump, dump and spending too much time that one word. I told him to skip it and go to the next one.
Day 32. I finally got a cell phone....
Day 32 Sunday January 18, 2009
People are worried because I havent blogged in a week....Im just so tired and I dont have my own internet so I dont access the internet that often.
Today I went to Itaewon to get a cell phone. Itaewon is full of foreigners. We see more foreigners in 5 minutes than we do in one month in Uijeongbu. Our recruiter met us there to help us. We got our cell phones at LG Telecom. I got a simple phone made by samsung. It was the cheapest one. They were trying to get rid of last year's phones to make room for the new ones. I dont care about high end phones. I cheap one works just fine. My phone is a hot pink flip phone that costed 60,000 won which is about $45 usd. The phone came with a charger, phone cover, mini usb drive, a screen cover, earphones. They gave us 2 batteries. The charger is different from chargers we use in America. You take out the battery and stick it in the charger and plug it up. its neat. Having 2 batteries is neat too. I'll always have a spare battery.
The plan I got includes 325 minutes and 200 text messages. free incoming calls. Its going to cost 50,000 won a month which is about $40 usd. Thats not too bad. I had to pay for the phone upfront. connection fees of 10,000 won will be added to our first 3 bills. My first bill will be automatically drafted out of my account on febuary 22.I signed a year contract. I'll have to pay 10,000 won to disconnect it at the end of a year.
We went to Gecko's Terrace for lunch. The restaurant was full of foreigners. They had an amazing hamburger. The hamburger was 9,500 won and came with fries. my whole meal was 12,500 because I got a coke for 3,000 won. 3,000 won wasnt a good deal for that small amount of coke! We stayed there for a while. They sat around and talked and drank a lot of beer. I just sat and listened since I dont drink. There was this creepy guy there. He kept coming and standing by our table listening to what we were saying. He told us he had been here for 6 months with the army-he told us he was from St Louis. we didnt like him coming around all the time so our recruiter bought him a drink to keep him away. The guy was trying to hit on me but our recruiter told him to leave me alone and that I was his adopted sister. haha. The guy still came back to our table and just stood there. Then he finally left.
At 4pm we went to Hollywood bar and grill. They drank a lot and played pool. I just sat and watched. They did make me drink a shot. One of the guys who is a teacher used to be a bartender so he told the bartender how to make a drink. It actually wasn't that bad because there wasn't much alcohol in it. It was kinda fruity. Everyone makes such a big deal out of me not drinking. I don't understand why its such a big deal. I don't like the taste but everytime I go somewhere people always say "have a drink."
People are worried because I havent blogged in a week....Im just so tired and I dont have my own internet so I dont access the internet that often.
Today I went to Itaewon to get a cell phone. Itaewon is full of foreigners. We see more foreigners in 5 minutes than we do in one month in Uijeongbu. Our recruiter met us there to help us. We got our cell phones at LG Telecom. I got a simple phone made by samsung. It was the cheapest one. They were trying to get rid of last year's phones to make room for the new ones. I dont care about high end phones. I cheap one works just fine. My phone is a hot pink flip phone that costed 60,000 won which is about $45 usd. The phone came with a charger, phone cover, mini usb drive, a screen cover, earphones. They gave us 2 batteries. The charger is different from chargers we use in America. You take out the battery and stick it in the charger and plug it up. its neat. Having 2 batteries is neat too. I'll always have a spare battery.
The plan I got includes 325 minutes and 200 text messages. free incoming calls. Its going to cost 50,000 won a month which is about $40 usd. Thats not too bad. I had to pay for the phone upfront. connection fees of 10,000 won will be added to our first 3 bills. My first bill will be automatically drafted out of my account on febuary 22.I signed a year contract. I'll have to pay 10,000 won to disconnect it at the end of a year.
We went to Gecko's Terrace for lunch. The restaurant was full of foreigners. They had an amazing hamburger. The hamburger was 9,500 won and came with fries. my whole meal was 12,500 because I got a coke for 3,000 won. 3,000 won wasnt a good deal for that small amount of coke! We stayed there for a while. They sat around and talked and drank a lot of beer. I just sat and listened since I dont drink. There was this creepy guy there. He kept coming and standing by our table listening to what we were saying. He told us he had been here for 6 months with the army-he told us he was from St Louis. we didnt like him coming around all the time so our recruiter bought him a drink to keep him away. The guy was trying to hit on me but our recruiter told him to leave me alone and that I was his adopted sister. haha. The guy still came back to our table and just stood there. Then he finally left.
At 4pm we went to Hollywood bar and grill. They drank a lot and played pool. I just sat and watched. They did make me drink a shot. One of the guys who is a teacher used to be a bartender so he told the bartender how to make a drink. It actually wasn't that bad because there wasn't much alcohol in it. It was kinda fruity. Everyone makes such a big deal out of me not drinking. I don't understand why its such a big deal. I don't like the taste but everytime I go somewhere people always say "have a drink."
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Day 31 my first trip to the movie theater
Day 31 January 17 2009 Saturday
Today me, a Korean teacher and another one of the foreign teachers went out to a movie at THC9. A theater near the subway station. Its a huge building. The theater is inside of Central Tower on the 14th floor.
When we got there we met up with the Korean teacher. Then We looked over the movie selection and chose "Yes Man" at 18:15pm. You get a number and wait till your number is on the screen then you go up and order your ticket. You also get to choose what seat you want. Assigned seating--i like that idea! When will the USA catch on?? The ticket was only 8,000 won so less than 8 dollars. The prices are also better over here.
We ate at a Korean restaurant on the same floor as the theater. I had chicken. I'm guessing its their version of bbq chicken? Anyway it was chicken with some brown sauce. It was good. We also had a rice omelet. It was rice inside of an egg just like an omelet. I liked it. Our meal was 7,000 won plus 1,000 won for the coke.
Then we went into the theater to see the movie. Nice theater. they had the stadium seating and it was comfortable. Not as big as an American theater like AMC but still a nice theater. The seats at the front are a good distance from the screen. We sat near the middle.
The movie was in English with Korean subtitles. That must suck for Koreans-esp those who don't know English. They have to read the subtitles during the movie to know what's going on. There was a part in the movie where Jim Carrey spoke some Korean. The movie was hilarious!
After the movie we went to an entertainment complex called Amusing World on the 8th floor of the central tower. It was neat. We all signed up for a membership. The membership card was only 1,000 won. You come in and they scan your card and for 8,000 won you can use the facility for 3 hours. They have tons of stuff to do: arcade, pool, ping pong, board games, darts, pc cafe, DVD room (you choose a dvd and go in a room and watch it), karaoke rooms, comic book rooms. They even have gaming systems in the pc cafe. I want to go in there and play wii. You can do all the activities for the time that you are in there. While I was there I played a few games in the arcade. I tried dance dance revolution again and I still suck! Me and the Korean teacher played some board games. I taught her Halli Galli (she won) and Make it or break it(we didn't keep score). We played 2 different versions of Make it or break it. Then I went to play darts with the other foreign teacher.
tomorrow me and the boys are going to Itaewon to attempt to get cell phones. We are meeting our recruiter at 1pm.
Today me, a Korean teacher and another one of the foreign teachers went out to a movie at THC9. A theater near the subway station. Its a huge building. The theater is inside of Central Tower on the 14th floor.
When we got there we met up with the Korean teacher. Then We looked over the movie selection and chose "Yes Man" at 18:15pm. You get a number and wait till your number is on the screen then you go up and order your ticket. You also get to choose what seat you want. Assigned seating--i like that idea! When will the USA catch on?? The ticket was only 8,000 won so less than 8 dollars. The prices are also better over here.
We ate at a Korean restaurant on the same floor as the theater. I had chicken. I'm guessing its their version of bbq chicken? Anyway it was chicken with some brown sauce. It was good. We also had a rice omelet. It was rice inside of an egg just like an omelet. I liked it. Our meal was 7,000 won plus 1,000 won for the coke.
Then we went into the theater to see the movie. Nice theater. they had the stadium seating and it was comfortable. Not as big as an American theater like AMC but still a nice theater. The seats at the front are a good distance from the screen. We sat near the middle.
The movie was in English with Korean subtitles. That must suck for Koreans-esp those who don't know English. They have to read the subtitles during the movie to know what's going on. There was a part in the movie where Jim Carrey spoke some Korean. The movie was hilarious!
After the movie we went to an entertainment complex called Amusing World on the 8th floor of the central tower. It was neat. We all signed up for a membership. The membership card was only 1,000 won. You come in and they scan your card and for 8,000 won you can use the facility for 3 hours. They have tons of stuff to do: arcade, pool, ping pong, board games, darts, pc cafe, DVD room (you choose a dvd and go in a room and watch it), karaoke rooms, comic book rooms. They even have gaming systems in the pc cafe. I want to go in there and play wii. You can do all the activities for the time that you are in there. While I was there I played a few games in the arcade. I tried dance dance revolution again and I still suck! Me and the Korean teacher played some board games. I taught her Halli Galli (she won) and Make it or break it(we didn't keep score). We played 2 different versions of Make it or break it. Then I went to play darts with the other foreign teacher.
tomorrow me and the boys are going to Itaewon to attempt to get cell phones. We are meeting our recruiter at 1pm.
Day 30 more snow
Day 30 January 17th Friday
It was snowing on my way to school today. I didn't even know snow was in the forecast. I think we probably got about 1-2 inches. not much. Everything doesn't shut down over here for that little bit of snow. we still had all of our normal classes. I took some pictures and now people back in South Carolina are jealous because they don't have any snow.
We went into school at 10:30 am. One of the other foreign teachers said we needed to get our bank accounts changed over today so we left school to go to our bank. One of the Korean teachers went with us. Its a long process. Lots of paperwork-everything in Korea comes with lots of paperwork. We were in there close to an hour. We got our accounts switched over reflect the new information on our ARC. We also signed up for online banking. The ARC is our new ID. we don't use our passport for things now-we use our ARC.
When we were walking back to school with the Korean teacher he asked us what level our first class was today. I told him what level and he says "You've got the stupid boys." Thats not very nice to say they are stupid-they are learning a foreign language. Learning English is hard!
The other foreign teacher didn't come to school today. They asked us where he was and we hadn't seen him since last night. He didn't let anyone know he wasn't coming to school today. The other teacher knocked on his door in the morn and he didn't answer. One of the Korean teachers went to his apartment to see if he was there and he didn't answer.
Our recruiter is going with us on Sunday to Itaewon to attempt to get cell phones. He thinks it will be easier there since there are more foreigners there.
Today we have our special Friday class which focuses mainly on writing.
The material is too short in my first class. Some of my students work ahead and they are trying to ask me directions for an activity that's 2 pages ahead of what we are doing. Some of them are already finished by the time I get past the 2nd page. I wish they would do the work as a class but I don't want them to get bored because its going to slow.
We got name tags yesterday and I wore mine to class today. The 2 girls in my 2nd class wrote down my name in their textbook. They looked at my name tag and then wrote in their textbook "Valerie English teacher name". My 2nd class wanted to be rowdy today. the 2 girls were good but the boys wanted to play around and not pay attention. Then when we were going over the material they kept saying "I don't understand". I wanted to say "if you would pay attention maybe you'd know what is going on" but thats not very professional. I explained the directions but they still didn't understand (because they were playing around and not listening). Some of them weren't even doing their work. Today our topic was apology notes. We were learning how to write an apology note. First I described what an apology was. Their final assignment was to write an apology note. One guy said he didn't know how. I said "have you ever done anything wrong?". He said no. I wrote an example on the board "Dear Valerie, I am sorry that I didn't pay attention in your class." They didn't even understand that. What does it mean to pay attention?
I think my 3rd class is a waste of my time and theirs. All we do in that class is go over a student newspaper. Today our topics were Actor Jang DG, diary, and the expression "beauty is only skin deep". I don't think they understood the expression part. They werent even writing in their books. I tell them to write a diary entry and they just sit there like they can't find anything to write about.
My 4th class is a challenge. One of my students loves to learn and the other one is smart but he loves to cut up in class. His English is great for a 2nd grader. He likes to read too loud and he keeps getting out of his seat. today he was playing with his eraser. he was throwing it around watching it bounce. Then he panicked when he couldn't find it. I told him we'll find it later but he wanted it then. He keeps coming up to the board to write on it. I keep telling him to go to his seat but it doesn't really help. One minute he is good and the next minute he is out of his seat and wont listen. I just hate that he is going hinder the other girl from getting all she can from the lessons because I spend so much time trying to get him to sit down. I think I might ask the Korean teacher if she has any problems with him. One of the other Korean teachers told me "he has a problem with his character" so I'm guessing they already know about his behavior. Its just frustrating.
One of the Korean teachers (the same one who took me snowboarding) wants to go to a movie tomorrow that should be fun! The movie theater THC9 is near the subway station.
I finally cooked for myself tonight! I made rice. I also cooked some smoked ham to go in my rice. it was very delicious. I didn't have any salt to add flavor to the rice so I just used butter. turned out well.
It was snowing on my way to school today. I didn't even know snow was in the forecast. I think we probably got about 1-2 inches. not much. Everything doesn't shut down over here for that little bit of snow. we still had all of our normal classes. I took some pictures and now people back in South Carolina are jealous because they don't have any snow.
We went into school at 10:30 am. One of the other foreign teachers said we needed to get our bank accounts changed over today so we left school to go to our bank. One of the Korean teachers went with us. Its a long process. Lots of paperwork-everything in Korea comes with lots of paperwork. We were in there close to an hour. We got our accounts switched over reflect the new information on our ARC. We also signed up for online banking. The ARC is our new ID. we don't use our passport for things now-we use our ARC.
When we were walking back to school with the Korean teacher he asked us what level our first class was today. I told him what level and he says "You've got the stupid boys." Thats not very nice to say they are stupid-they are learning a foreign language. Learning English is hard!
The other foreign teacher didn't come to school today. They asked us where he was and we hadn't seen him since last night. He didn't let anyone know he wasn't coming to school today. The other teacher knocked on his door in the morn and he didn't answer. One of the Korean teachers went to his apartment to see if he was there and he didn't answer.
Our recruiter is going with us on Sunday to Itaewon to attempt to get cell phones. He thinks it will be easier there since there are more foreigners there.
Today we have our special Friday class which focuses mainly on writing.
The material is too short in my first class. Some of my students work ahead and they are trying to ask me directions for an activity that's 2 pages ahead of what we are doing. Some of them are already finished by the time I get past the 2nd page. I wish they would do the work as a class but I don't want them to get bored because its going to slow.
We got name tags yesterday and I wore mine to class today. The 2 girls in my 2nd class wrote down my name in their textbook. They looked at my name tag and then wrote in their textbook "Valerie English teacher name". My 2nd class wanted to be rowdy today. the 2 girls were good but the boys wanted to play around and not pay attention. Then when we were going over the material they kept saying "I don't understand". I wanted to say "if you would pay attention maybe you'd know what is going on" but thats not very professional. I explained the directions but they still didn't understand (because they were playing around and not listening). Some of them weren't even doing their work. Today our topic was apology notes. We were learning how to write an apology note. First I described what an apology was. Their final assignment was to write an apology note. One guy said he didn't know how. I said "have you ever done anything wrong?". He said no. I wrote an example on the board "Dear Valerie, I am sorry that I didn't pay attention in your class." They didn't even understand that. What does it mean to pay attention?
I think my 3rd class is a waste of my time and theirs. All we do in that class is go over a student newspaper. Today our topics were Actor Jang DG, diary, and the expression "beauty is only skin deep". I don't think they understood the expression part. They werent even writing in their books. I tell them to write a diary entry and they just sit there like they can't find anything to write about.
My 4th class is a challenge. One of my students loves to learn and the other one is smart but he loves to cut up in class. His English is great for a 2nd grader. He likes to read too loud and he keeps getting out of his seat. today he was playing with his eraser. he was throwing it around watching it bounce. Then he panicked when he couldn't find it. I told him we'll find it later but he wanted it then. He keeps coming up to the board to write on it. I keep telling him to go to his seat but it doesn't really help. One minute he is good and the next minute he is out of his seat and wont listen. I just hate that he is going hinder the other girl from getting all she can from the lessons because I spend so much time trying to get him to sit down. I think I might ask the Korean teacher if she has any problems with him. One of the other Korean teachers told me "he has a problem with his character" so I'm guessing they already know about his behavior. Its just frustrating.
One of the Korean teachers (the same one who took me snowboarding) wants to go to a movie tomorrow that should be fun! The movie theater THC9 is near the subway station.
I finally cooked for myself tonight! I made rice. I also cooked some smoked ham to go in my rice. it was very delicious. I didn't have any salt to add flavor to the rice so I just used butter. turned out well.
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Day 29 trying to get a cell phone
Day 29 January 15, 2009 Thursday
classes were good today.
My heat is broken! I told the VP yesterday. They said our boiler was broken. Its a brand new building and the boiler was already broken. The mechanic came around 10:30pm to fix it. Then it was warm the rest of the night!
I wanted to go to bed really early but its good that I didnt because I would have been woken up. I almost went to bed at 9pm! I was so tired! I dont know why im so tired all the time!
Yesterday there was a note on our desks. It said "Fill your markers with ink from the shelf. If you don't know how to do it then ask a Korean teacher." Then they told us that if our markers are running out of ink to fill them up. You screw off the top and pour in the ink. They heard that I bought my own markers. What is the big deal? So what, I bought my own markers because I dont like the ones that you have to fill up with ink! They are so picky about us not buying our own supplies. I dont know why it matters so much.
We tried to go get cell phones tonight. We ended up not getting them. You usually get a free phone with a 2 year contract but we would have to pay for our phones since we would be on a 1 year contract. The korean teacher said they used to let you pay in installments but they dont allow that anymore in our city. we went to 4 different cell phone stores. We would have to pay for the setup fees and phone upfront. We had filled out all the paperwork then they look at our ID's and bank cards and tell us that we wouldnt be able to get it because our ID's didnt match our bank accounts. We made our bank accounts with our passports. Now since we have our ARC our ID needs to match our bank accounts so we are going to change our accounts tomorrow.
classes were good today.
My heat is broken! I told the VP yesterday. They said our boiler was broken. Its a brand new building and the boiler was already broken. The mechanic came around 10:30pm to fix it. Then it was warm the rest of the night!
I wanted to go to bed really early but its good that I didnt because I would have been woken up. I almost went to bed at 9pm! I was so tired! I dont know why im so tired all the time!
Yesterday there was a note on our desks. It said "Fill your markers with ink from the shelf. If you don't know how to do it then ask a Korean teacher." Then they told us that if our markers are running out of ink to fill them up. You screw off the top and pour in the ink. They heard that I bought my own markers. What is the big deal? So what, I bought my own markers because I dont like the ones that you have to fill up with ink! They are so picky about us not buying our own supplies. I dont know why it matters so much.
We tried to go get cell phones tonight. We ended up not getting them. You usually get a free phone with a 2 year contract but we would have to pay for our phones since we would be on a 1 year contract. The korean teacher said they used to let you pay in installments but they dont allow that anymore in our city. we went to 4 different cell phone stores. We would have to pay for the setup fees and phone upfront. We had filled out all the paperwork then they look at our ID's and bank cards and tell us that we wouldnt be able to get it because our ID's didnt match our bank accounts. We made our bank accounts with our passports. Now since we have our ARC our ID needs to match our bank accounts so we are going to change our accounts tomorrow.
Day 28 I am now an official alien
Day 28 January 14, 2009 Wed.
I got my Alien Registration Card today so Im an official alien.
Today we walked to school with the vice principal. Me and the 2 guys walk to school together. the vp came out of his apt at the same time so he walked with us. He lives in the apt across the hall.
My first class wanted to be rowdy today. We were talking about how coyotes are in native american stories and there was one part in the listening that made me and the class laugh. So we read 3 statements to see how much they remember. They have to choose the correct statement. 2 are wrong and one is right. In the reading it said that coyotes often play tricksters in the stories. So when I was reading there was a statement that said "coyotes play the guitar" and "coyotes play basketball" both of those made us laugh. I gave them a word search at the end of class.
Well thats all I can remember about wednesday!
I got my Alien Registration Card today so Im an official alien.
Today we walked to school with the vice principal. Me and the 2 guys walk to school together. the vp came out of his apt at the same time so he walked with us. He lives in the apt across the hall.
My first class wanted to be rowdy today. We were talking about how coyotes are in native american stories and there was one part in the listening that made me and the class laugh. So we read 3 statements to see how much they remember. They have to choose the correct statement. 2 are wrong and one is right. In the reading it said that coyotes often play tricksters in the stories. So when I was reading there was a statement that said "coyotes play the guitar" and "coyotes play basketball" both of those made us laugh. I gave them a word search at the end of class.
Well thats all I can remember about wednesday!
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Day 27 more midterms
Day 27 January 13 2009 Tuesday
Today was the last day of elementary midterms.
in my first class I was just reviewing. I covered all the material that we have learned so far which was only 5 units. Then there was time left over so I gave them a word search to do. These kids love word searches. They see you pass it out and they get happy. I was amazed at how quiet they were. I gave them the word search and they sat there quietly the rest of class and did the word search.
When I was about to begin my 2nd class the korean teacher came in and told me that she had warned the rowdy students that if they are loud again they will go to detention. They were confused when I told them that we were reviewing what we had learned. Yeah I think it was a stupid idea too. I had one absent student and one of my students that was a troublemaker is no longer in the class. I also had a new student. We laughed a lot in this class today. When we were reading there was one student who was talking in a high pitch voice. That made me laugh and the whole class laughed as well. Then this class loves to laugh when they hear the word "shadow" so everytime we heard that word we all laughed. This class was actually good today. I was surprised. I think the korean teacher drugged them or something. (not really but they really were that good). They are usually rowdy and I have to tell them to be quiet about 10 times. by the time we got to the reviewing the last unit half of the students had quit repeating along with me. After we finished I gave them the word search. They enjoyed that. Some of them worked together on it. I know how to make them quiet--give them a word search. I was impressed. Even when they were working together they were still quiet.
During the 3rd block I had to teach middle school. I don't have enough material to cover so I made them a word search and a crossword puzzle. The crossword puzzle actually tied in with the lesson today on puzzles. I don't understand how I am suppose to make 3 pages last 50 minutes. Its ridiculous! We were done in about 15 mins and that was after we repeated everything twice. I cant make the material last that long with only 2 students. If I had a bigger class it would be easier. Next week we will review for midterm and practice speaking. I have to give them a speaking test next Thursday.
4th class I had to administer the 2nd part of the exam. That took up most of the class. One of the students said the test was too hard. I gave them a word search at the end of class also.
I ate at Wips again tonight. I got the chicken cutlet. Its really good! Then me and one of the other foreign teachers went grocery shopping at home plus and shared a taxi ride home. we didn't have that many groceries but it was great to not have to walk in the cold! The cab fare to our apartment was only 1900 won (a little more than $1..its about a 10 minute walk.)
weather: 11:20pm -5 celcius (23F) It might actually get into the 40's on Saturday. The high is suppose to be +7 celcius which is 44F...
I hate having to convert everything! Why can't we just use a universal temperature...and money...and language? why?
Exchange rate: 1354 won = $1 usd
Today was the last day of elementary midterms.
in my first class I was just reviewing. I covered all the material that we have learned so far which was only 5 units. Then there was time left over so I gave them a word search to do. These kids love word searches. They see you pass it out and they get happy. I was amazed at how quiet they were. I gave them the word search and they sat there quietly the rest of class and did the word search.
When I was about to begin my 2nd class the korean teacher came in and told me that she had warned the rowdy students that if they are loud again they will go to detention. They were confused when I told them that we were reviewing what we had learned. Yeah I think it was a stupid idea too. I had one absent student and one of my students that was a troublemaker is no longer in the class. I also had a new student. We laughed a lot in this class today. When we were reading there was one student who was talking in a high pitch voice. That made me laugh and the whole class laughed as well. Then this class loves to laugh when they hear the word "shadow" so everytime we heard that word we all laughed. This class was actually good today. I was surprised. I think the korean teacher drugged them or something. (not really but they really were that good). They are usually rowdy and I have to tell them to be quiet about 10 times. by the time we got to the reviewing the last unit half of the students had quit repeating along with me. After we finished I gave them the word search. They enjoyed that. Some of them worked together on it. I know how to make them quiet--give them a word search. I was impressed. Even when they were working together they were still quiet.
During the 3rd block I had to teach middle school. I don't have enough material to cover so I made them a word search and a crossword puzzle. The crossword puzzle actually tied in with the lesson today on puzzles. I don't understand how I am suppose to make 3 pages last 50 minutes. Its ridiculous! We were done in about 15 mins and that was after we repeated everything twice. I cant make the material last that long with only 2 students. If I had a bigger class it would be easier. Next week we will review for midterm and practice speaking. I have to give them a speaking test next Thursday.
4th class I had to administer the 2nd part of the exam. That took up most of the class. One of the students said the test was too hard. I gave them a word search at the end of class also.
I ate at Wips again tonight. I got the chicken cutlet. Its really good! Then me and one of the other foreign teachers went grocery shopping at home plus and shared a taxi ride home. we didn't have that many groceries but it was great to not have to walk in the cold! The cab fare to our apartment was only 1900 won (a little more than $1..its about a 10 minute walk.)
weather: 11:20pm -5 celcius (23F) It might actually get into the 40's on Saturday. The high is suppose to be +7 celcius which is 44F...
I hate having to convert everything! Why can't we just use a universal temperature...and money...and language? why?
Exchange rate: 1354 won = $1 usd
Monday, January 12, 2009
Day 26 midterm testing
Day 26 Monday January 12, 2009
I can't believe I've been here 26 days! I've survived 26 of the coldest days of my life!!
Today was midterm testing for the kids. I only had to administer one exam. I was reviewing in the other classes.
So when I went to work this morning I had no clue what was going on. I knew the midterms were going on but I had no clue what my role in the midterm testing process was. I finally found out.
1st class I had to review. I went through and read all the vocab and reading selections for all 7 sections that we have covered so far. And what fun-I got more essays to read and correct.
2nd class I had to review the 7 sections that we had covered so far. I reviewed after the test. I didn't see the point in that but whatever. It will be fresh on their mind for the final exam which is in a few weeks. Gave them back their essays. Their final draft will be due on Wednesday then I have to make final remarks about the papers.
3rd class I had to administer part A of the test. One of my students was absent for the midterm. I was so confused on what I was suppose to be doing. I knew I had a listening part to do but no one had given me the cd yet. I went out looking for the teacher assistant and they brought me the cd. Then I didn't know what the student's id number was. It was suppose to be on the board. The head Korean teacher went and looked up the numbers for me. Then the rest of the testing process went smoothly. They had 60 questions to do in 40 minutes. They finished right on time. I also gave them their essays back. They will bring them back on Wednesday.
4th class is my new rowdy class. We had to review what they had just taken on the midterm. Today the boy that is usually rowdy was more subdued but the new boy took his place as the bad student. He kept getting out of his seat and being too loud and reading at the wrong time. Instead of reading with the class he liked to be the echo. I'd say something, they repeated, then he repeated. later he was reading ahead. I'd read 2 words and he'd read the whole sentence. I found out that the 2 boys are only in 2nd grade. The girl is in 6th grade. So I have 2 8 year olds and a 12 year old. Those aren't their ages, I'm just guessing how old they should be. The boys are really advanced. the trouble maker can read really good. I think he's going to be a problem. If I have to send him to detention everyday then I will.
I told the guys that the Body Worlds exhibit is in town and they were interested so we are going to that soon. Its not the actual body worlds I don't think but its the same concept. it only costs 10,000 won. One of the teachers translated the Korean poster and gave us directions on how to get there by the subway.
We finally got pots and pans and utensils. It was listed in our contracts and we didn't have it when we moved in. So one of the guys complained about it and we finally got them today. We got a frying pan, spoon, fork, chopsticks, 10 piece dish set, kettle, sauce pan, cutting boards, knives, ziploc containers. The VP even brought us some rice.
I bought a few things at the store to make at home. I got simple stuff like ramen noodles, spam, hot dogs. I cooked one of the hot dogs for a snack tonight. I figured out how to work my gas stove. It took me a while! I got the cheapest brand of hot dogs just to try them out. they were called onion dogs. they tasted alright. I wanted some bratwurst but they were expensive. I've got to learn how to cook so I can cook lunch for myself when school starts back on the night shift.
weather: very cold! 11:45pm--14 degrees F (-10 celcius). Feels like -13 celcius (8.6 F)
Exchange rate: 1354 won= $1usd
Tomorrow I have to review for 2 classes, teach middle school, and administer part b of the test to my students.
I can't believe I've been here 26 days! I've survived 26 of the coldest days of my life!!
Today was midterm testing for the kids. I only had to administer one exam. I was reviewing in the other classes.
So when I went to work this morning I had no clue what was going on. I knew the midterms were going on but I had no clue what my role in the midterm testing process was. I finally found out.
1st class I had to review. I went through and read all the vocab and reading selections for all 7 sections that we have covered so far. And what fun-I got more essays to read and correct.
2nd class I had to review the 7 sections that we had covered so far. I reviewed after the test. I didn't see the point in that but whatever. It will be fresh on their mind for the final exam which is in a few weeks. Gave them back their essays. Their final draft will be due on Wednesday then I have to make final remarks about the papers.
3rd class I had to administer part A of the test. One of my students was absent for the midterm. I was so confused on what I was suppose to be doing. I knew I had a listening part to do but no one had given me the cd yet. I went out looking for the teacher assistant and they brought me the cd. Then I didn't know what the student's id number was. It was suppose to be on the board. The head Korean teacher went and looked up the numbers for me. Then the rest of the testing process went smoothly. They had 60 questions to do in 40 minutes. They finished right on time. I also gave them their essays back. They will bring them back on Wednesday.
4th class is my new rowdy class. We had to review what they had just taken on the midterm. Today the boy that is usually rowdy was more subdued but the new boy took his place as the bad student. He kept getting out of his seat and being too loud and reading at the wrong time. Instead of reading with the class he liked to be the echo. I'd say something, they repeated, then he repeated. later he was reading ahead. I'd read 2 words and he'd read the whole sentence. I found out that the 2 boys are only in 2nd grade. The girl is in 6th grade. So I have 2 8 year olds and a 12 year old. Those aren't their ages, I'm just guessing how old they should be. The boys are really advanced. the trouble maker can read really good. I think he's going to be a problem. If I have to send him to detention everyday then I will.
I told the guys that the Body Worlds exhibit is in town and they were interested so we are going to that soon. Its not the actual body worlds I don't think but its the same concept. it only costs 10,000 won. One of the teachers translated the Korean poster and gave us directions on how to get there by the subway.
We finally got pots and pans and utensils. It was listed in our contracts and we didn't have it when we moved in. So one of the guys complained about it and we finally got them today. We got a frying pan, spoon, fork, chopsticks, 10 piece dish set, kettle, sauce pan, cutting boards, knives, ziploc containers. The VP even brought us some rice.
I bought a few things at the store to make at home. I got simple stuff like ramen noodles, spam, hot dogs. I cooked one of the hot dogs for a snack tonight. I figured out how to work my gas stove. It took me a while! I got the cheapest brand of hot dogs just to try them out. they were called onion dogs. they tasted alright. I wanted some bratwurst but they were expensive. I've got to learn how to cook so I can cook lunch for myself when school starts back on the night shift.
weather: very cold! 11:45pm--14 degrees F (-10 celcius). Feels like -13 celcius (8.6 F)
Exchange rate: 1354 won= $1usd
Tomorrow I have to review for 2 classes, teach middle school, and administer part b of the test to my students.
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Day 25
Day 25 January 11, 2009 Sunday
I've found a new car that I want. The 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe. They used the Infiniti G37 as a model. It looks just like an infiniti but a lot cheaper. It hasnt been released in the USA but it has been released in Korea (2009 model?) for 23,000,000 won which equals out to $18,000 usd. When it comes out in the USA I bet it would be more expensive than if I would have bought in it Korea. I would buy one in Korea but shipping it home would cost tons of money! I'll wait till it comes out in 2010 and buy it then in the low 20 thousand range which is still a lot cheaper than the infiniti. I like the dark blue one in the pictures!
go to this site to see pictures: http://carscoop.blogspot.com/2008/10/hyundai-launches-genesis-coupe-in-korea.html
Today has just been a lazy Sunday. I seriously need to start looking for churches. I just think the difficulty will be finding English speaking churches. Its pointless to go to a korean service where I dont know what's going on. I do have one megachurch that I plan to visit soon. maybe next Sunday.
I went to bed at 1am and got up around noon.
I havent done much today. I washed one load of clothes and I still have one more load. I don't have to plan any lessons for Monday and Tuesday so i dont have to worry about that.
I still need to finish correcting the essays. I try to do a little bit everyday but its so difficult.on some of them I have no clue what they are trying to say because the words are in the wrong place and it doesn't make sense. They dont have beginnings, middles and ends. There are no paragraphs, just a bunch of sentences. They start sentences with and and because. They didnt write 10 sentences like they were suppose to. One of my essays is 3 run on sentences. One of my essays isnt an essay at all. Its just a copy of the outline. I dont think the Korean teachers really taught them how to write the essay or even tell them what the topic was. I have 15 essays to mark and 6 of them are totally off topic. I guess they just said "hey write an essay." They need to show the students an example of a good essay. Its not my job to teach them how to write. I'm only there to teach English. Im afraid if I try to help them too much that I'll get in trouble. seriously.
I went to eat at Wips again. I really like it. Today I got a cutlet set. It was 3 pieces of meat, noodles, rice and some stuff kinda like macaroni salad. For only 7,000 won. ($5.10 usd)
I'm in a PC cafe right now. This particular one I went to has a non smoking section. great! I won't die of 2nd hand smoke today. At least I wont have to worry about coming to a PC cafe for much longer. Its really loud in here. Lots of young guys playing video games and talking to each other. I get my Alien Registration Card on Wednesday then I can get internet! One of the guys is going to get internet and a wireless router and we are going to share the connection. or at least try to.
I was reading everyone's status updates on Facebook and I saw that the Panthers lost the playoff game. I just wonder why they have a good season then make it to the big game and let us down.
Exchange: 1371 won=$1. Thats the highest its been since Ive been here. please keep going up until I get my check!! I need to transfer money around January 28th and I want a good exchange rate so it equals to more dollars in my US account.
Weather: at 4:51 it is -5 celcius which is 23 Fahrenheit. It feels like -10 celcius which is 14 Fahrenheit. Its way too cold!!
I've found a new car that I want. The 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe. They used the Infiniti G37 as a model. It looks just like an infiniti but a lot cheaper. It hasnt been released in the USA but it has been released in Korea (2009 model?) for 23,000,000 won which equals out to $18,000 usd. When it comes out in the USA I bet it would be more expensive than if I would have bought in it Korea. I would buy one in Korea but shipping it home would cost tons of money! I'll wait till it comes out in 2010 and buy it then in the low 20 thousand range which is still a lot cheaper than the infiniti. I like the dark blue one in the pictures!
go to this site to see pictures: http://carscoop.blogspot.com/2008/10/hyundai-launches-genesis-coupe-in-korea.html
Today has just been a lazy Sunday. I seriously need to start looking for churches. I just think the difficulty will be finding English speaking churches. Its pointless to go to a korean service where I dont know what's going on. I do have one megachurch that I plan to visit soon. maybe next Sunday.
I went to bed at 1am and got up around noon.
I havent done much today. I washed one load of clothes and I still have one more load. I don't have to plan any lessons for Monday and Tuesday so i dont have to worry about that.
I still need to finish correcting the essays. I try to do a little bit everyday but its so difficult.on some of them I have no clue what they are trying to say because the words are in the wrong place and it doesn't make sense. They dont have beginnings, middles and ends. There are no paragraphs, just a bunch of sentences. They start sentences with and and because. They didnt write 10 sentences like they were suppose to. One of my essays is 3 run on sentences. One of my essays isnt an essay at all. Its just a copy of the outline. I dont think the Korean teachers really taught them how to write the essay or even tell them what the topic was. I have 15 essays to mark and 6 of them are totally off topic. I guess they just said "hey write an essay." They need to show the students an example of a good essay. Its not my job to teach them how to write. I'm only there to teach English. Im afraid if I try to help them too much that I'll get in trouble. seriously.
I went to eat at Wips again. I really like it. Today I got a cutlet set. It was 3 pieces of meat, noodles, rice and some stuff kinda like macaroni salad. For only 7,000 won. ($5.10 usd)
I'm in a PC cafe right now. This particular one I went to has a non smoking section. great! I won't die of 2nd hand smoke today. At least I wont have to worry about coming to a PC cafe for much longer. Its really loud in here. Lots of young guys playing video games and talking to each other. I get my Alien Registration Card on Wednesday then I can get internet! One of the guys is going to get internet and a wireless router and we are going to share the connection. or at least try to.
I was reading everyone's status updates on Facebook and I saw that the Panthers lost the playoff game. I just wonder why they have a good season then make it to the big game and let us down.
Exchange: 1371 won=$1. Thats the highest its been since Ive been here. please keep going up until I get my check!! I need to transfer money around January 28th and I want a good exchange rate so it equals to more dollars in my US account.
Weather: at 4:51 it is -5 celcius which is 23 Fahrenheit. It feels like -10 celcius which is 14 Fahrenheit. Its way too cold!!
Day 24--Bears Town Ski Resort
Day 24 January 10, 2009 Saturday
Today me and one of the korean teachers, Michelle, went snowboarding. We went to Bears Town Ski Resort in Pocheon.
Bears Town Resort, which is a large-scale, total leisure town in suburban Seoul, is a city suburban style ski resort equipped with International Ski Federation approved slopes. Including the 88 Challenge Line approved by International Ski Federation, the resort has a total of 11 ski slopes and 9 lifts with a capacity to accept 15,200 skiers per hour.
Website: http://www.bearstown.com/eng/
Directions to Bears Town:
Take Bus No. 707 in front of Cheongnyangni train Station, and get off at Gwangneungnae. Change to bus No.7.5.1001 and get off at Bears Town Ski Resort.
Take bus No. 1001 at Gangbyeon station(subway line 2) and get off at Bears Town Ski Resort. (This one is probably the easiest way)
Take bus at Inchon, Su-won, An-san express bus terminal and get off at Naecheon.
Change to bus No.5,7,33,1001 and get off at Bears Town Ski Resort.
shuttle bus time and schedule: www.bearstown.com
We went to the snowboard rental place first and got shoes and a board then we headed out to the ski resort. There were tons of people there. First she taught us some basics like how to stop. Then we stayed on the free practice slope for about 1 hr and 30 minutes.Michelle would take us one by one and teach us how to snowboard while the other 2 people watched. Its harder than it looks! I didn't try it on my own. Michelle was always with me helping me stop. I was doing a pretty good job at times. At least I didn't fall but only because she was there with me! I would have tried it by myself without her help but there were so many people around. I would have ended up running into someone! I had fun and I'll definatly try it again someday!
Then we went to her parent's house. Her parents live in a real house which isn't very common in Korea (Most people live in Apartments). Her mom cooked dinner. I dont know what it was but it was okay. The dish had sticky rice (I like sticky rice!), something like ramen noodles, and some kind of dumplings with spicy stuff inside. We watched a Korean movie--it was funny even though I had no clue what they were saying!
We ate at a korean restaurant before heading to a party. I had Tukbaegi bulgogi which is Barbecued beef stew in earthen ware bowl. it was good. 6,000 won.
We went to the party at Dongdaenum stadium exit on the subway. We didn't stay there long. The baby was celebrating its first birthday. It was neat to see the family dressed in their hanbok (traditional garments).
While we were at the subway she took down a poster for me. It was an advertisement for something like body worlds. Its going to be here from 1/10 till 3/1. I'm going! I missed the one that came to Charlotte. There were 2 posters there so she took down one of them and gave it to me. haha.
Exchange rate: 1355 won=$1 USD. going up again.
Weather: very cold! 10:20pm. -7 celcius=19 F. Feels like -13 celcius=8F. oh how I long to be somewhere warm!
Today me and one of the korean teachers, Michelle, went snowboarding. We went to Bears Town Ski Resort in Pocheon.
Bears Town Resort, which is a large-scale, total leisure town in suburban Seoul, is a city suburban style ski resort equipped with International Ski Federation approved slopes. Including the 88 Challenge Line approved by International Ski Federation, the resort has a total of 11 ski slopes and 9 lifts with a capacity to accept 15,200 skiers per hour.
Website: http://www.bearstown.com/eng/
Directions to Bears Town:
Take Bus No. 707 in front of Cheongnyangni train Station, and get off at Gwangneungnae. Change to bus No.7.5.1001 and get off at Bears Town Ski Resort.
Take bus No. 1001 at Gangbyeon station(subway line 2) and get off at Bears Town Ski Resort. (This one is probably the easiest way)
Take bus at Inchon, Su-won, An-san express bus terminal and get off at Naecheon.
Change to bus No.5,7,33,1001 and get off at Bears Town Ski Resort.
shuttle bus time and schedule: www.bearstown.com
We went to the snowboard rental place first and got shoes and a board then we headed out to the ski resort. There were tons of people there. First she taught us some basics like how to stop. Then we stayed on the free practice slope for about 1 hr and 30 minutes.Michelle would take us one by one and teach us how to snowboard while the other 2 people watched. Its harder than it looks! I didn't try it on my own. Michelle was always with me helping me stop. I was doing a pretty good job at times. At least I didn't fall but only because she was there with me! I would have tried it by myself without her help but there were so many people around. I would have ended up running into someone! I had fun and I'll definatly try it again someday!
Then we went to her parent's house. Her parents live in a real house which isn't very common in Korea (Most people live in Apartments). Her mom cooked dinner. I dont know what it was but it was okay. The dish had sticky rice (I like sticky rice!), something like ramen noodles, and some kind of dumplings with spicy stuff inside. We watched a Korean movie--it was funny even though I had no clue what they were saying!
We ate at a korean restaurant before heading to a party. I had Tukbaegi bulgogi which is Barbecued beef stew in earthen ware bowl. it was good. 6,000 won.
We went to the party at Dongdaenum stadium exit on the subway. We didn't stay there long. The baby was celebrating its first birthday. It was neat to see the family dressed in their hanbok (traditional garments).
While we were at the subway she took down a poster for me. It was an advertisement for something like body worlds. Its going to be here from 1/10 till 3/1. I'm going! I missed the one that came to Charlotte. There were 2 posters there so she took down one of them and gave it to me. haha.
Exchange rate: 1355 won=$1 USD. going up again.
Weather: very cold! 10:20pm. -7 celcius=19 F. Feels like -13 celcius=8F. oh how I long to be somewhere warm!
Saturday, January 10, 2009
Day 23-Friday
Day 23-Friday January 9, 2009
So We've been having trouble making the material last 75 mins on Fridays. One of the guys was making word searches and crossword puzzles for his kids. I was thinking what a great idea. so me and the other teacher made some too.
Those word searches were a lifesaver! My first class liked them the most. It gave them something fun to do while searching for vocabulary words plus they were able to socialize with their classmates to see who found what words. Maybe next time I'll make it into a game to see who can finish first.
The korean teachers had their first faculty meeting today. Our new person in charge told us what they talked about. We got a job description paper. We can't sit down in class. cant wear jeans. we arent suppose to buy our own supplies. the school should pay for everything we need for school. I bought a few things-oh well I didn't know. He also was telling us of how if we want to go out drinking just let the vice principal know and we will go together and use the school's money. If we ever go out to a formal dinner with faculty the oldest person pays. They don't go dutch here. We aren't used to that!! well that would be nice if I actually drinked. He also told us we shouldn't be listening to music at work or checking our emails or using instant message. I check my email a lot at school. what am i suppose to do during my free time? He was also telling us to socialize with the other korean teachers because they are very shy and self conscious about their english skills. He was also telling us how we got our desk assignments in the teacher's lounge. Michelle wanted to be beside me. 2 girls saw Andrew's picture and said "I want to sit beside him".ha. He was also telling us how the Korean teachers get paid less than us. we get paid more because we have better english skills.
Monday and Tuesday is the student's midterm exams...we wont be teaching that day but im confused about what we are doing. I think we are reviewing and in one class I have to give the exam. I dont know.
Today Michelle asked me if it was okay to change our plans. Instead of a movie she wants to go snowboarding. neat. we are going tomorrow morning. Thats actually on my list of things to do so thats great!
I find it interesting to look at all the kids pencil cases. I never rememeber students in my elementary school having pencil cases. All the kids have pencil cases. some of them are really cute. Ive seen some in the shape of a rabbit, dog, and frog. Others have flowers and smiley faces.
In one of my classes we talked about "going out to eat". In the 2nd and last class we talked about movies.
In our 3rd class we talked about "Knut the polar bear leaves the berlin zoo","Britney Spears back on top" and "Alexander the great" from a newspaper written for students. It would have been neat if I could have brought in clips from the songs in the article, but I dont have any Britney Spears songs.haha. It would have been good to let them hear what I was talking about. The article mentioned "baby one more time" and "Womanizer". I dont think they understood when I told them to rewrite the article and pretend like they were telling the news. I told them to write what they would say if they had to present that story on the news. No one really wrote anything. So I moved on to the next article.
I had another new student in my last class. The bad student from last time was absent but now I have another rowdy student. I had to keep telling him to get in his seat. He didn't want to do the work and kept asking when it was time to go home. He told me I was a bad teacher. The other student said "you are just a bad student". She told the truth on that one. I'm not looking forward to that class anymore. I'm going to get strict and give them detention if they are bad.
I was reading more essays. They are terrible! I have 6 essays that are totally off topic. I have to correct it on whatever topic they wrote on. I cant understand half of it. I asked one of the teachers if they had a different topic and they said no. The students were confused. I think they need to spend more time explaining and letting the kids know what an essay is. They were suppose to write more than 10 sentences and most of them are too short. One of them just wrote an outline as the essay. how do i correct that?
After school I went to eat supper with andrew and michelle. we went to a restaurant called Wips family restaurant. I had a chicken cutlet. it was great! and only 6,500 won. that was a good amount of food for the price. the chicken was good and I liked the side items. one was some kind of macaroni salad that had corn in it. we also had a soup which tasted like chicken noodle. The only thing I didn't like was hot water. they gave us hot water to drink.
Exchange rate: 1342
weather: 5:56pm -2 celcius=28 F
So We've been having trouble making the material last 75 mins on Fridays. One of the guys was making word searches and crossword puzzles for his kids. I was thinking what a great idea. so me and the other teacher made some too.
Those word searches were a lifesaver! My first class liked them the most. It gave them something fun to do while searching for vocabulary words plus they were able to socialize with their classmates to see who found what words. Maybe next time I'll make it into a game to see who can finish first.
The korean teachers had their first faculty meeting today. Our new person in charge told us what they talked about. We got a job description paper. We can't sit down in class. cant wear jeans. we arent suppose to buy our own supplies. the school should pay for everything we need for school. I bought a few things-oh well I didn't know. He also was telling us of how if we want to go out drinking just let the vice principal know and we will go together and use the school's money. If we ever go out to a formal dinner with faculty the oldest person pays. They don't go dutch here. We aren't used to that!! well that would be nice if I actually drinked. He also told us we shouldn't be listening to music at work or checking our emails or using instant message. I check my email a lot at school. what am i suppose to do during my free time? He was also telling us to socialize with the other korean teachers because they are very shy and self conscious about their english skills. He was also telling us how we got our desk assignments in the teacher's lounge. Michelle wanted to be beside me. 2 girls saw Andrew's picture and said "I want to sit beside him".ha. He was also telling us how the Korean teachers get paid less than us. we get paid more because we have better english skills.
Monday and Tuesday is the student's midterm exams...we wont be teaching that day but im confused about what we are doing. I think we are reviewing and in one class I have to give the exam. I dont know.
Today Michelle asked me if it was okay to change our plans. Instead of a movie she wants to go snowboarding. neat. we are going tomorrow morning. Thats actually on my list of things to do so thats great!
I find it interesting to look at all the kids pencil cases. I never rememeber students in my elementary school having pencil cases. All the kids have pencil cases. some of them are really cute. Ive seen some in the shape of a rabbit, dog, and frog. Others have flowers and smiley faces.
In one of my classes we talked about "going out to eat". In the 2nd and last class we talked about movies.
In our 3rd class we talked about "Knut the polar bear leaves the berlin zoo","Britney Spears back on top" and "Alexander the great" from a newspaper written for students. It would have been neat if I could have brought in clips from the songs in the article, but I dont have any Britney Spears songs.haha. It would have been good to let them hear what I was talking about. The article mentioned "baby one more time" and "Womanizer". I dont think they understood when I told them to rewrite the article and pretend like they were telling the news. I told them to write what they would say if they had to present that story on the news. No one really wrote anything. So I moved on to the next article.
I had another new student in my last class. The bad student from last time was absent but now I have another rowdy student. I had to keep telling him to get in his seat. He didn't want to do the work and kept asking when it was time to go home. He told me I was a bad teacher. The other student said "you are just a bad student". She told the truth on that one. I'm not looking forward to that class anymore. I'm going to get strict and give them detention if they are bad.
I was reading more essays. They are terrible! I have 6 essays that are totally off topic. I have to correct it on whatever topic they wrote on. I cant understand half of it. I asked one of the teachers if they had a different topic and they said no. The students were confused. I think they need to spend more time explaining and letting the kids know what an essay is. They were suppose to write more than 10 sentences and most of them are too short. One of them just wrote an outline as the essay. how do i correct that?
After school I went to eat supper with andrew and michelle. we went to a restaurant called Wips family restaurant. I had a chicken cutlet. it was great! and only 6,500 won. that was a good amount of food for the price. the chicken was good and I liked the side items. one was some kind of macaroni salad that had corn in it. we also had a soup which tasted like chicken noodle. The only thing I didn't like was hot water. they gave us hot water to drink.
Exchange rate: 1342
weather: 5:56pm -2 celcius=28 F
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Day 22
Day 22 January 8--Thursday
I got mail from my mom last night! It was just a short "test" mail. I told her to send something unimportant just to make sure it got here instead of sending something important and the address wasn't recognizable. I wonder why it wasn't in my mailbox. It was on top of the mailboxes so i don't know what day it actually arrived. Now she can send my package of important stuff!
Last night I lost my glove. I was so upset since that would be the 2nd glove I've lost since I've been here. I didn't want to buy another pair. I found my glove today in the hallway on the stairs. I'm glad I found it!
On Saturday I'm going out with one of the female Korean teachers. She asked me yesterday "would you like to be my friend". I said "sure". She's a nice girl..our desks are beside each other at work. She's 33 but she doesn't look her age. (No one does over here. I found out that one of the guys is 30 and we would have guessed around 25.) We are going to see a movie and she wants me to go with her to a birthday party for someone's kid. Should be fun. It will be neat to see how they celebrate. and definatly neat if the movie is in Korean cause I wont know what the heck is going on!
I only had to teach 3 classes today. Thursdays are so much better than Tuesdays. No middle school class on Thursday so I get a 75 min break which is nice. I can grade papers and enter grades during my break.
Today in my 1st 2 classes we talked about superheroes. I don't think they really understood what a superhero was or what a superhero did so I had a lot of questions to answer. They had a part where they had to create their own superhero and I don't think they understood although I explained it a million times.
My 2nd class was a little rowdy again today. I'm going to have to start threatening them with detention.
in my 2nd class a group of 3 girls came up to me after class. One of the girls said "you're cute". ah how nice. Its okay for girls to say that to each other but I do have a funny story. Andrew, one of the other foreign teachers, had 2 teenage guys tell him he was "handsome". He was kinda freaked out by that. Guys don't say that kind of stuff to each other.
I got more essays today. They are on topic but they still don't make sense! Its going to be hard to correct them!
Ate at burger king again for lunch. at night we went to pizza school.
We have a new person who is in charge of us because we were unhappy with the other guy. This guy speaks much better English and will be able to help us more.
Exchange Rate: 1332-back up again...see it rises and falls everyday..unpredictable just like the stocks
Weather: 6:03pm it was +2 celcius which is 35 F. It hasn't gotten out of the 30's since I've been here. The highest its been is 39 degrees F.
I got mail from my mom last night! It was just a short "test" mail. I told her to send something unimportant just to make sure it got here instead of sending something important and the address wasn't recognizable. I wonder why it wasn't in my mailbox. It was on top of the mailboxes so i don't know what day it actually arrived. Now she can send my package of important stuff!
Last night I lost my glove. I was so upset since that would be the 2nd glove I've lost since I've been here. I didn't want to buy another pair. I found my glove today in the hallway on the stairs. I'm glad I found it!
On Saturday I'm going out with one of the female Korean teachers. She asked me yesterday "would you like to be my friend". I said "sure". She's a nice girl..our desks are beside each other at work. She's 33 but she doesn't look her age. (No one does over here. I found out that one of the guys is 30 and we would have guessed around 25.) We are going to see a movie and she wants me to go with her to a birthday party for someone's kid. Should be fun. It will be neat to see how they celebrate. and definatly neat if the movie is in Korean cause I wont know what the heck is going on!
I only had to teach 3 classes today. Thursdays are so much better than Tuesdays. No middle school class on Thursday so I get a 75 min break which is nice. I can grade papers and enter grades during my break.
Today in my 1st 2 classes we talked about superheroes. I don't think they really understood what a superhero was or what a superhero did so I had a lot of questions to answer. They had a part where they had to create their own superhero and I don't think they understood although I explained it a million times.
My 2nd class was a little rowdy again today. I'm going to have to start threatening them with detention.
in my 2nd class a group of 3 girls came up to me after class. One of the girls said "you're cute". ah how nice. Its okay for girls to say that to each other but I do have a funny story. Andrew, one of the other foreign teachers, had 2 teenage guys tell him he was "handsome". He was kinda freaked out by that. Guys don't say that kind of stuff to each other.
I got more essays today. They are on topic but they still don't make sense! Its going to be hard to correct them!
Ate at burger king again for lunch. at night we went to pizza school.
We have a new person who is in charge of us because we were unhappy with the other guy. This guy speaks much better English and will be able to help us more.
Exchange Rate: 1332-back up again...see it rises and falls everyday..unpredictable just like the stocks
Weather: 6:03pm it was +2 celcius which is 35 F. It hasn't gotten out of the 30's since I've been here. The highest its been is 39 degrees F.
Day 21--Ive been here 3 weeks!
Day 21--Wednesday--Jan 7
I can't believe I've been here 3 weeks! only 49 left to go. 47 of teaching (if I make it that far) 2 weeks of vacation. Its sad that I've already started counting down.
My school is so disorganized! I was walking out of the building and one of the korean teachers tells me to "take up the essays in DA today". What? What essay? Yes everything is last minute. So apparently I'm suppose to take up an essay which no one told me about until the day it was due. I have to mark the mistakes in the essay. I have a feeling Im going to be putting red ink all over the essay!
Ate lunch at burger king again. Yeah im not branching out to try new foods.
We thought we would be getting our Alien Registration Cards this week. They informed us that now the ARC cards take 2 weeks to come back instead of one. We will get them next wednesday. Then I can get internet and a cell phone.
I was suppose to take up essays in 3 of my classes. I went into my 1st class and asked for their essays. They said "korean teacher will take them". so the korean teacher took them up. I went to the 2nd class and they said "what essay. nobody told us to do an essay" so I wrote a note on the board to the teacher "students do not know about the essay." My 3rd class actually had their essays.
I was so confused in my 3rd class. So apparently there are suppose to be 20 lessons in each book. So someone got lazy and only wrote 16 lessons for this book. I had to teach the same lesson twice. wonder what my students think of that. I told them that I knew we were doing the same lesson twice but thats what they told me to teach. I have to follow the syllabus. Last class I assigned the wrong homework because I looked and I wondered why there were 2 sets of questions for the same lesson. I told them to do the 2nd set. I said it must be a mistake-there are two sets of questions for the same lesson. One student did the first set of questions and the other 2 students did the 2nd set. so we went over both. The students who did the 2nd set could fill in the answers while I was going over the other one. so they already have half of their homework done. I hated having to teach the same lesson twice.
In my 3rd class one of the assignments in the workbook was to draw a picture of your bedroom. I watched them draw. they are little artists. They actually took their time and made it look good. One of them got out her ruler to draw straight lines.
so the little boy that was visiting my class on Monday is now enrolled in my class. oh no. he is going to be a problem. Both students had better behavior overall but the new student is annoying. We have to read out loud and he says I don't like to read. I told him if he didn't read that I would give him a lower score. He didn't read half of the time so I lowered his participation score. I had to keep telling him to get into his seat. He was sitting under his desk and getting up during class. The girl in the class wanted to repeat everything like 10 times. That was actually good since I needed material to fill time anyway.
The other teacher from the 2nd class gave me the essays. everyone didn't turn one in. oh well. I was looking over them and I think grading them is going to be a nightmare! They are terrible! I'm going to have red marks on every sentence. I know we have to put marks but I wonder if we can rewrite sentences for them as an example or just mark it as "this is wrong" and let them fix it on their own. I cant try to fix it on my own because the Korean teachers will look at it. I wonder how I correct 2 of my essays when they are completely off topic..Their topic was about commercials. one of my papers was about "why i should be quiet in class". Another one was about "Korea's beautiful seasons". Way off topic!! Some of them need to be completely rewritten. Words are out of place, sentences don't make sense, I don't know what they mean,and a whole list of things that are wrong but I can only put the preapproved marks so they will have to figure it out on their own.
At night me and the guys ate at a korean restaurant. The same one we ate at before. I had Dook Bae Gi Bulgogi. The only dish I know! and it was only 4,000 won.
Exchange rate: 1292
Weather: at 6:35 it was 0 celcius which is 32 F....I also looked at Jefferson's weather (my hometown)--it was 19 celcius which is 66 F....oh how I long for warm weather! It hasnt gotten out of the 30s since Ive been here!
I can't believe I've been here 3 weeks! only 49 left to go. 47 of teaching (if I make it that far) 2 weeks of vacation. Its sad that I've already started counting down.
My school is so disorganized! I was walking out of the building and one of the korean teachers tells me to "take up the essays in DA today". What? What essay? Yes everything is last minute. So apparently I'm suppose to take up an essay which no one told me about until the day it was due. I have to mark the mistakes in the essay. I have a feeling Im going to be putting red ink all over the essay!
Ate lunch at burger king again. Yeah im not branching out to try new foods.
We thought we would be getting our Alien Registration Cards this week. They informed us that now the ARC cards take 2 weeks to come back instead of one. We will get them next wednesday. Then I can get internet and a cell phone.
I was suppose to take up essays in 3 of my classes. I went into my 1st class and asked for their essays. They said "korean teacher will take them". so the korean teacher took them up. I went to the 2nd class and they said "what essay. nobody told us to do an essay" so I wrote a note on the board to the teacher "students do not know about the essay." My 3rd class actually had their essays.
I was so confused in my 3rd class. So apparently there are suppose to be 20 lessons in each book. So someone got lazy and only wrote 16 lessons for this book. I had to teach the same lesson twice. wonder what my students think of that. I told them that I knew we were doing the same lesson twice but thats what they told me to teach. I have to follow the syllabus. Last class I assigned the wrong homework because I looked and I wondered why there were 2 sets of questions for the same lesson. I told them to do the 2nd set. I said it must be a mistake-there are two sets of questions for the same lesson. One student did the first set of questions and the other 2 students did the 2nd set. so we went over both. The students who did the 2nd set could fill in the answers while I was going over the other one. so they already have half of their homework done. I hated having to teach the same lesson twice.
In my 3rd class one of the assignments in the workbook was to draw a picture of your bedroom. I watched them draw. they are little artists. They actually took their time and made it look good. One of them got out her ruler to draw straight lines.
so the little boy that was visiting my class on Monday is now enrolled in my class. oh no. he is going to be a problem. Both students had better behavior overall but the new student is annoying. We have to read out loud and he says I don't like to read. I told him if he didn't read that I would give him a lower score. He didn't read half of the time so I lowered his participation score. I had to keep telling him to get into his seat. He was sitting under his desk and getting up during class. The girl in the class wanted to repeat everything like 10 times. That was actually good since I needed material to fill time anyway.
The other teacher from the 2nd class gave me the essays. everyone didn't turn one in. oh well. I was looking over them and I think grading them is going to be a nightmare! They are terrible! I'm going to have red marks on every sentence. I know we have to put marks but I wonder if we can rewrite sentences for them as an example or just mark it as "this is wrong" and let them fix it on their own. I cant try to fix it on my own because the Korean teachers will look at it. I wonder how I correct 2 of my essays when they are completely off topic..Their topic was about commercials. one of my papers was about "why i should be quiet in class". Another one was about "Korea's beautiful seasons". Way off topic!! Some of them need to be completely rewritten. Words are out of place, sentences don't make sense, I don't know what they mean,and a whole list of things that are wrong but I can only put the preapproved marks so they will have to figure it out on their own.
At night me and the guys ate at a korean restaurant. The same one we ate at before. I had Dook Bae Gi Bulgogi. The only dish I know! and it was only 4,000 won.
Exchange rate: 1292
Weather: at 6:35 it was 0 celcius which is 32 F....I also looked at Jefferson's weather (my hometown)--it was 19 celcius which is 66 F....oh how I long for warm weather! It hasnt gotten out of the 30s since Ive been here!
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Day 20--Hectic! what the heck!
Day 20--Tuesday
Weather: 6:29pm--32 degrees F (0 celcius)
Exchange rate:1311 (3 point drop)
Today in my special conversation class we were going over a unit that had phrases to describe people. like weak, old, strong, etc. We learned the phrases "Strong as an ox", "quiet as a mouse", "weak as a kitten","cute as a button", etc. One phrase that cracks me up is "Old as the hills" as in "Grandpa is older than grandma. he's as old as the hills". What if one of the students went home and said "grandpa is as old as the hills". The parent would say "where did you hear that?".."at school".
After my conversation class I get a break. I was on my way to lunch and the korean teacher said "In your DA class you have to take up an essay". What? no one told me about an essay. apparently we were suppose to take up an essay. Yeah they tell us things at the last minute.
My first class was hectic! I had 14 students on the roll. The max number is supposed to be 13!! I had 2 new students. I have new students almost everyday. either they are new or they move from another class-move up a level. But I had 16 students in my class. 2 more that weren't on the roll. I don't know if they were from a mon/wed class (if they miss a m/w class they can come to the same class on Tues/Thurs) or new students. Then I didnt have enough desks. There were 15 desks plus the desk that I lay my books/materials on in the front of the room. I gave the student my desk and I put my stuff on the floor. What the heck? why did I have 16 students?
My 2nd class was better than last time. They didnt act up as much. Im glad. They still talked a little when they werent suppose to but not as bad as last time. My students didnt really understand the skillbags exercise so I had to explain it to them over and over. It was really a stupid exercise anyway!
I hate teaching middle school. Now I have 2 students in middle school instead of one. The material is too short! I was finished with the lesson in 15 mins. that was after we had talked about the material, went over it and reviewed it a 2nd time. we even finished another unit. Then we still had time to spare. there isn't enough material to last 45 minutes.
My last class was good.We didn't have enough material to cover in this class either.
Thats my main problem--not enough material to teach. They expect us to spend 35 mins on a paragraph! Its not enough. I bet my students get tired of repeating the same story twice and repeating every line in the vocab twice. There are also tons of mistakes in the teaching books. Mostly grammer mistakes. Its crazy. we complain but they don't care. we have to teach it like it is. no matter if its wrong. these students are going to be not as smart as they should be.
This is crazy! This school is so disorganized. There is tons of miscommunication. We get everything at the last minute. Everything is so hectic! There's not enough material to cover. There are tons of mistakes in the books. I don't know how long I can stand it!!
I was reviewing my syllabus for tomorrow and planning out my lesson and I found out that in one class Im basically teaching the same lesson again. When my students asked me why the same lesson was in their homework questions twice I thought it was a mistake. I looked through the book and there are a few lessons where im teaching the same one twice. There are suppose to be 20 lessons in a book. I saw that this one only has 16 so they make you teach some of them twice. come on..they could have thought of 4 more lessons! If the students complain I'll just say thats what they told me to do--complain to them!!
I was trying to enter in my grades today but I couldn't finish. I have a page where I can look at their names and enter in their grades on the internet. well some of the blanks are empty so I dont know who's grade to put in. I have a few students that I cant find out their grade til I know which blank their name goes in. Then I went to the front desk and ask the receptionist if I could make a copy of the 2 rolls that I need. She was doing something with it so she said "I'll give it to you tonight". I told her I was leaving so just put it on my desk. so now I have to wait to put in some of my grades. I need a new copy of the roll because they keep adding new students!! Once the semester has started I think you should stay where you are so you wont put added stress on the teachers who are already stressed out because they don't know what the heck is going on because everything is so disorganized!
Weather: 6:29pm--32 degrees F (0 celcius)
Exchange rate:1311 (3 point drop)
Today in my special conversation class we were going over a unit that had phrases to describe people. like weak, old, strong, etc. We learned the phrases "Strong as an ox", "quiet as a mouse", "weak as a kitten","cute as a button", etc. One phrase that cracks me up is "Old as the hills" as in "Grandpa is older than grandma. he's as old as the hills". What if one of the students went home and said "grandpa is as old as the hills". The parent would say "where did you hear that?".."at school".
After my conversation class I get a break. I was on my way to lunch and the korean teacher said "In your DA class you have to take up an essay". What? no one told me about an essay. apparently we were suppose to take up an essay. Yeah they tell us things at the last minute.
My first class was hectic! I had 14 students on the roll. The max number is supposed to be 13!! I had 2 new students. I have new students almost everyday. either they are new or they move from another class-move up a level. But I had 16 students in my class. 2 more that weren't on the roll. I don't know if they were from a mon/wed class (if they miss a m/w class they can come to the same class on Tues/Thurs) or new students. Then I didnt have enough desks. There were 15 desks plus the desk that I lay my books/materials on in the front of the room. I gave the student my desk and I put my stuff on the floor. What the heck? why did I have 16 students?
My 2nd class was better than last time. They didnt act up as much. Im glad. They still talked a little when they werent suppose to but not as bad as last time. My students didnt really understand the skillbags exercise so I had to explain it to them over and over. It was really a stupid exercise anyway!
I hate teaching middle school. Now I have 2 students in middle school instead of one. The material is too short! I was finished with the lesson in 15 mins. that was after we had talked about the material, went over it and reviewed it a 2nd time. we even finished another unit. Then we still had time to spare. there isn't enough material to last 45 minutes.
My last class was good.We didn't have enough material to cover in this class either.
Thats my main problem--not enough material to teach. They expect us to spend 35 mins on a paragraph! Its not enough. I bet my students get tired of repeating the same story twice and repeating every line in the vocab twice. There are also tons of mistakes in the teaching books. Mostly grammer mistakes. Its crazy. we complain but they don't care. we have to teach it like it is. no matter if its wrong. these students are going to be not as smart as they should be.
This is crazy! This school is so disorganized. There is tons of miscommunication. We get everything at the last minute. Everything is so hectic! There's not enough material to cover. There are tons of mistakes in the books. I don't know how long I can stand it!!
I was reviewing my syllabus for tomorrow and planning out my lesson and I found out that in one class Im basically teaching the same lesson again. When my students asked me why the same lesson was in their homework questions twice I thought it was a mistake. I looked through the book and there are a few lessons where im teaching the same one twice. There are suppose to be 20 lessons in a book. I saw that this one only has 16 so they make you teach some of them twice. come on..they could have thought of 4 more lessons! If the students complain I'll just say thats what they told me to do--complain to them!!
I was trying to enter in my grades today but I couldn't finish. I have a page where I can look at their names and enter in their grades on the internet. well some of the blanks are empty so I dont know who's grade to put in. I have a few students that I cant find out their grade til I know which blank their name goes in. Then I went to the front desk and ask the receptionist if I could make a copy of the 2 rolls that I need. She was doing something with it so she said "I'll give it to you tonight". I told her I was leaving so just put it on my desk. so now I have to wait to put in some of my grades. I need a new copy of the roll because they keep adding new students!! Once the semester has started I think you should stay where you are so you wont put added stress on the teachers who are already stressed out because they don't know what the heck is going on because everything is so disorganized!
Day 19 i think....Monday January 5
Monday Jan 5th
Weather: 6:35pm--30 degrees F(-1 celcius)
Exchange rate: 1314 (17 point drop)
Today was an okay day in classes.
In one of my classes the activity was to ask them what they wanted to be when they grew up. My students said:
*teacher--2 people
*baseball player
*science teacher
*soccer player--2 people
*Badminton player
*someone at the U.N. who speaks a lot of languages (we didn't know what this title was)
and three of my students didn't know.
My good student that was in a class by herself was bad for one day. She didn't do her homework. She gave some excuse about going to her grandmas. so because she went to her grandmas she couldn't do it. I warned her--miss 2 more and I will send you to detention. There was another boy in class today. He wasn't registered but I guess he was just sitting in on the class. Those 2 acted up the whole time. I sure hope he doesn't register and get put in that class. I'll have to put one of them in the back of the room and one in the front so they cant talk or hit each other during class.
I think one of the guys that I eat lunch with gets frustrated with me. We leave to eat lunch at the same time and he always asks "where do you want to go". I say "i dont care or it doesnt matter". He always says "pick somewhere". "I dont care". I have a hard time deciding where to eat. I usually end up at burger king because I dont know what to eat besides westernized food. I miss food in the USA. I cant find much of it here!So we walk together then split up--I head to burger king and he goes to the food court. I'm very indecisive! None of my favorite choices are over here!!
I was so tired that I went to bed at 9pm!
Weather: 6:35pm--30 degrees F(-1 celcius)
Exchange rate: 1314 (17 point drop)
Today was an okay day in classes.
In one of my classes the activity was to ask them what they wanted to be when they grew up. My students said:
*teacher--2 people
*baseball player
*science teacher
*soccer player--2 people
*Badminton player
*someone at the U.N. who speaks a lot of languages (we didn't know what this title was)
and three of my students didn't know.
My good student that was in a class by herself was bad for one day. She didn't do her homework. She gave some excuse about going to her grandmas. so because she went to her grandmas she couldn't do it. I warned her--miss 2 more and I will send you to detention. There was another boy in class today. He wasn't registered but I guess he was just sitting in on the class. Those 2 acted up the whole time. I sure hope he doesn't register and get put in that class. I'll have to put one of them in the back of the room and one in the front so they cant talk or hit each other during class.
I think one of the guys that I eat lunch with gets frustrated with me. We leave to eat lunch at the same time and he always asks "where do you want to go". I say "i dont care or it doesnt matter". He always says "pick somewhere". "I dont care". I have a hard time deciding where to eat. I usually end up at burger king because I dont know what to eat besides westernized food. I miss food in the USA. I cant find much of it here!So we walk together then split up--I head to burger king and he goes to the food court. I'm very indecisive! None of my favorite choices are over here!!
I was so tired that I went to bed at 9pm!
Sunday, January 4, 2009
address and pictures
Right now most of my photos are hosted on facebook and myspace. If you want the link send me your email address so you can be added to my list of people that I sent pic updates to. I might take the time to upload all my pictures on this blog. maybe when I get my own internet.
I have an address! Send me mail!! Cards, letters, goodies. If you are sending anything other than a letter please check with your post office about whatever you need to do for it to clear at customs. I dont know the procedure. you might have to tell what is in the package. Ask the post office.
Valerie Knight
3F, Room 303, 772-7, Shingok-dong,
Uijeongbu-si, Gyeonggi-do, 480-072, Korea
I have an address! Send me mail!! Cards, letters, goodies. If you are sending anything other than a letter please check with your post office about whatever you need to do for it to clear at customs. I dont know the procedure. you might have to tell what is in the package. Ask the post office.
Valerie Knight
3F, Room 303, 772-7, Shingok-dong,
Uijeongbu-si, Gyeonggi-do, 480-072, Korea
Day 18--Hongdae, Techno Mart and Coex mall
Day 18--jan 4--Sunday
Im finally caught up on my blogs..they wont be post dated anymore!
Today me and the guys went to Hongdae. We took a cab to the subway and it was 1,000 won each.
Then we took line 1 and transferred to line 2 to get to Hongdae-we got off at the Hontik university exit. It took 45 mins to get to the green line from the dark blue line in Uijeongbu. Then we had 3 stops to get to Hongdae. I always find it funny how there are people selling stuff on the subway. Today there were people selling leggings, gloves and lint removers. They start in one cart and advertise for a while then move to the next one.
When we got off at Hongdae we walked around for a little while and realized there is nothing to do in Hongdae! At least in the area where we were. (we were there in the day...It't known for its nightlife)
Then we decided to go to Techno Mart so we got back on the subway. Techno Mart is huge! 10 floors. If you like computers, video games, electronics that is the place to go. The first 3 floors had tons of cameras. If i decide to upgrade to a dslr I know where to go! They have a cinema on the 10th floor. We also went up to the top of the building and looked over the Han River. What a great view.
Directions to Techno Mart:
1. Subway Line 2 Gangbyeon Station
2. Techno Mart is connected to Exit #1 and #2 of Gangbyeon Station
Next we decided to go to the largest mall in Seoul--Coex mall on the Samseong exit on the green line. It is a big mall. We went into a few stores. Now I know where to get cds and books in English. I didn't buy anything. We found a TGI Fridays and me and James went in there to eat. I had a Jack Daniels Chopped Steak for 15,000 won. I liked it.
We decided to head back home around 6pm. The subway was packed! We were on the subway for a while then we heard that we could transfer to line 1 so we got off but we couldnt figure out where to transfer so we got back on the same subway train and transferred to the blue line then to the dark blue line. the whole trip was about an hour and 40 mins.
We took a taxi from the subway to home plus. The driver took the long way because it costed more than the ride to the subway. And the driver's gas gauge was sitting on empty! We took a taxi to the subway and it was 3100 and it was 4500 to get home. That taxi driver knows how to make money!
Today's weather in Seoul during the day was about 39 degrees. Still cold but not as cold as its been.
Todays exchange rate was 1331. The same as yesterday. 1331 won=$1
Im finally caught up on my blogs..they wont be post dated anymore!
Today me and the guys went to Hongdae. We took a cab to the subway and it was 1,000 won each.
Then we took line 1 and transferred to line 2 to get to Hongdae-we got off at the Hontik university exit. It took 45 mins to get to the green line from the dark blue line in Uijeongbu. Then we had 3 stops to get to Hongdae. I always find it funny how there are people selling stuff on the subway. Today there were people selling leggings, gloves and lint removers. They start in one cart and advertise for a while then move to the next one.
When we got off at Hongdae we walked around for a little while and realized there is nothing to do in Hongdae! At least in the area where we were. (we were there in the day...It't known for its nightlife)
Then we decided to go to Techno Mart so we got back on the subway. Techno Mart is huge! 10 floors. If you like computers, video games, electronics that is the place to go. The first 3 floors had tons of cameras. If i decide to upgrade to a dslr I know where to go! They have a cinema on the 10th floor. We also went up to the top of the building and looked over the Han River. What a great view.
Directions to Techno Mart:
1. Subway Line 2 Gangbyeon Station
2. Techno Mart is connected to Exit #1 and #2 of Gangbyeon Station
Next we decided to go to the largest mall in Seoul--Coex mall on the Samseong exit on the green line. It is a big mall. We went into a few stores. Now I know where to get cds and books in English. I didn't buy anything. We found a TGI Fridays and me and James went in there to eat. I had a Jack Daniels Chopped Steak for 15,000 won. I liked it.
We decided to head back home around 6pm. The subway was packed! We were on the subway for a while then we heard that we could transfer to line 1 so we got off but we couldnt figure out where to transfer so we got back on the same subway train and transferred to the blue line then to the dark blue line. the whole trip was about an hour and 40 mins.
We took a taxi from the subway to home plus. The driver took the long way because it costed more than the ride to the subway. And the driver's gas gauge was sitting on empty! We took a taxi to the subway and it was 3100 and it was 4500 to get home. That taxi driver knows how to make money!
Today's weather in Seoul during the day was about 39 degrees. Still cold but not as cold as its been.
Todays exchange rate was 1331. The same as yesterday. 1331 won=$1
Day 17--jan 3rd
Day 17 January 3rd
So today me and the guys were going to go to Hongdae. We were going to leave at 11am. I got up at 10am and I was ready. I went outside my room and stood there for 10 mins. I thought maybe they were late or they left without me. So I rang both of their doorbells. James answered. Andrew didn’t. Both of them were still asleep. They stayed out late last night. So James said we would go tomorrow.
I got out and went to eat and to Home Plus. I checked my account first. I took out 50,000 won. I had 898,000 left. So that mean’s my check was 948,000.
Then I went to eat at a Korean restaurant. Now that I know one dish I can order for myself at Korean restaurants. I went to the restaurant that we went to the other day. I ordered Dook bae gi bulgogi. It was good. I tried a piece of kimchi—its hot! I also tried another one of the sides…wow it was hot too. I’ll just stick with the main dish.
Then I went to Home Plus to pick up some household items. I had to get toilet cleaner, a toilet brush, small trashcan for bathroom, bathmat, broom/dustpan. I also got more hangers, coke, milk and bananas. I spent 31,000. The little trashcan I got was so cute. It has a saying on it about friendship. It says “if you need me you know where to reach me, I’m just a phone call away” on the top and on the side it says “True love is so rare and precious but a good friendship is even more so. You are my most valuable treasure”. Its so cute but so odd for a trashcan saying!! I’d like to get those for friends but I don’t know how they would feel about receiving a trashcan.
I did some cleaning today. A little rearranging and I swept my room.
For supper I went to Lotteria. I heard that the shrimp burger was good. I tried it and its true! The shrimp burger is delicious. The combo was 4,700 and came with a small fry, small drink and some latte drink.
Then I headed to the PC café for 3 and a half hours. I checked email and caught up on all my blogs.
The other day I found funny Korean shirts online. I want one!!
I washed one load of clothes tonight.
Its very cold!! The temperature at 11pm was 0 Celsius which comes out to 32 F. For the next 10 days the high temperature will be 3 Celsius which is 37 Fahrenheit. The low for the next 10 days will be -12 which is 10 degrees Fahrenheit. I’m not used to weather this cold!!
Today’s exchange rate= 1331 won=$1
Its up from 1265 on Wed or Thursday. It fluctuates everyday. Up and down. I’ve been here 2 weeks and the lowest was 1265 and the highest was 1331. a 66 point fluctuation in a few days.
So today me and the guys were going to go to Hongdae. We were going to leave at 11am. I got up at 10am and I was ready. I went outside my room and stood there for 10 mins. I thought maybe they were late or they left without me. So I rang both of their doorbells. James answered. Andrew didn’t. Both of them were still asleep. They stayed out late last night. So James said we would go tomorrow.
I got out and went to eat and to Home Plus. I checked my account first. I took out 50,000 won. I had 898,000 left. So that mean’s my check was 948,000.
Then I went to eat at a Korean restaurant. Now that I know one dish I can order for myself at Korean restaurants. I went to the restaurant that we went to the other day. I ordered Dook bae gi bulgogi. It was good. I tried a piece of kimchi—its hot! I also tried another one of the sides…wow it was hot too. I’ll just stick with the main dish.
Then I went to Home Plus to pick up some household items. I had to get toilet cleaner, a toilet brush, small trashcan for bathroom, bathmat, broom/dustpan. I also got more hangers, coke, milk and bananas. I spent 31,000. The little trashcan I got was so cute. It has a saying on it about friendship. It says “if you need me you know where to reach me, I’m just a phone call away” on the top and on the side it says “True love is so rare and precious but a good friendship is even more so. You are my most valuable treasure”. Its so cute but so odd for a trashcan saying!! I’d like to get those for friends but I don’t know how they would feel about receiving a trashcan.
I did some cleaning today. A little rearranging and I swept my room.
For supper I went to Lotteria. I heard that the shrimp burger was good. I tried it and its true! The shrimp burger is delicious. The combo was 4,700 and came with a small fry, small drink and some latte drink.
Then I headed to the PC café for 3 and a half hours. I checked email and caught up on all my blogs.
The other day I found funny Korean shirts online. I want one!!
I washed one load of clothes tonight.
Its very cold!! The temperature at 11pm was 0 Celsius which comes out to 32 F. For the next 10 days the high temperature will be 3 Celsius which is 37 Fahrenheit. The low for the next 10 days will be -12 which is 10 degrees Fahrenheit. I’m not used to weather this cold!!
Today’s exchange rate= 1331 won=$1
Its up from 1265 on Wed or Thursday. It fluctuates everyday. Up and down. I’ve been here 2 weeks and the lowest was 1265 and the highest was 1331. a 66 point fluctuation in a few days.
Day 16--January 2nd--Friday
Day 16--January 2nd--Friday
Back to work!
Today we started classes at 12:30. I had to be at school at 10:30. I thought we'd be going somewhere to fill out forms for our alien reg card but I guess we don't have to go. We had to give John a pic of ourself. We gave him 10,000 won and our passport earlier in the week. We should have our cards soon! then internet and cell phone!
One of the Korean teachers has access to our bank accounts. He made a comment on how the guys took out money from their accounts and how I haven't. Why should they be looking in our accounts? creepy.
classes were okay today. 5 of my students were absent today. The lessons were way too short today! We are all having trouble making the lessons last 75 minutes. we need more material to cover! I need to create something that relates to the lesson. a worksheet or game. something. Other teachers say go slower. I'm already going slow and making them repeat things a ton of times. One of my students was moved out of my 1st class. I also had a new student in one of my classes.
The guys are having trouble with their heat. So a mechanic was suppose to come look at it. Well they wanted to look at mine too so I had to give them my code. I told them mine was working so why would they need to look at it? We were all scared that we'd come back and our stuff would be missing. later that night I changed my code. I couldn't remember all the steps. the vice principals wife helped me. You enter in your code to open your door. then press reset. press old code. then new code twice. close door. put in new code.
I have 77,000 won left of what my mom gave me before I have to go into my account. I'm going to look at my account tomorrow.
After work we went to eat at Pizza School. They didn't have enough pepperoni for 2 pizzas so we had to get one pepperoni and one cheese. The cheese pizza had corn on it. what? it was still okay.
While we were in Pizza School we were watching tv and we got to see some of the popular Korean pop bands. We saw Wondergirls-they have a hit called "nobody". its played everywhere! I actually like it. Then we also saw Big Bang. Our students talk about big bang. We also saw SS501. I liked them too. They look like girls. Its a boy band but they could pass as girls. I went home and looked up all 3 groups and posted their music videos on my facebook.
Afterwards I went out with the guys to WaBar(a bar). They drank 2 beers and I just listened to them talk.
Back to work!
Today we started classes at 12:30. I had to be at school at 10:30. I thought we'd be going somewhere to fill out forms for our alien reg card but I guess we don't have to go. We had to give John a pic of ourself. We gave him 10,000 won and our passport earlier in the week. We should have our cards soon! then internet and cell phone!
One of the Korean teachers has access to our bank accounts. He made a comment on how the guys took out money from their accounts and how I haven't. Why should they be looking in our accounts? creepy.
classes were okay today. 5 of my students were absent today. The lessons were way too short today! We are all having trouble making the lessons last 75 minutes. we need more material to cover! I need to create something that relates to the lesson. a worksheet or game. something. Other teachers say go slower. I'm already going slow and making them repeat things a ton of times. One of my students was moved out of my 1st class. I also had a new student in one of my classes.
The guys are having trouble with their heat. So a mechanic was suppose to come look at it. Well they wanted to look at mine too so I had to give them my code. I told them mine was working so why would they need to look at it? We were all scared that we'd come back and our stuff would be missing. later that night I changed my code. I couldn't remember all the steps. the vice principals wife helped me. You enter in your code to open your door. then press reset. press old code. then new code twice. close door. put in new code.
I have 77,000 won left of what my mom gave me before I have to go into my account. I'm going to look at my account tomorrow.
After work we went to eat at Pizza School. They didn't have enough pepperoni for 2 pizzas so we had to get one pepperoni and one cheese. The cheese pizza had corn on it. what? it was still okay.
While we were in Pizza School we were watching tv and we got to see some of the popular Korean pop bands. We saw Wondergirls-they have a hit called "nobody". its played everywhere! I actually like it. Then we also saw Big Bang. Our students talk about big bang. We also saw SS501. I liked them too. They look like girls. Its a boy band but they could pass as girls. I went home and looked up all 3 groups and posted their music videos on my facebook.
Afterwards I went out with the guys to WaBar(a bar). They drank 2 beers and I just listened to them talk.
Day 15--New Year's Day...Happy 2009
Day 15--January 1st, 2009--Thursday
No school today!!
Well I was going to sleep in today but I guess Koreans never sleep in. This is the 2nd holiday where I have gotten woke up by someone making noise in the building. Why do you have to run your vacuum cleaner at 10am on a day off? I still stayed in bed till close to 2pm. I didnt go to bed until after 3am.
My bed is so uncomfortable and I woke up hurting. its hard as a rock. when I have more money Im getting a mattress topper.
I got a gift from the vice principal today. His little boy brought over a box of donuts. The Vice principal also invited us out to dinner. I didn't go because I had just gotten back from eating. I was full.
I went to eat lunch/supper at Burger King.
Home Plus is the place to be on holidays. it was packed again today. I walked around for a while then headed home.
Thats my boring new years day.
No school today!!
Well I was going to sleep in today but I guess Koreans never sleep in. This is the 2nd holiday where I have gotten woke up by someone making noise in the building. Why do you have to run your vacuum cleaner at 10am on a day off? I still stayed in bed till close to 2pm. I didnt go to bed until after 3am.
My bed is so uncomfortable and I woke up hurting. its hard as a rock. when I have more money Im getting a mattress topper.
I got a gift from the vice principal today. His little boy brought over a box of donuts. The Vice principal also invited us out to dinner. I didn't go because I had just gotten back from eating. I was full.
I went to eat lunch/supper at Burger King.
Home Plus is the place to be on holidays. it was packed again today. I walked around for a while then headed home.
Thats my boring new years day.
Day 14--I've been here 2 weeks!
Day 14--December 31--Wednesday
Wow Ive been in South Korea for 2 weeks. wow time really does fly. The crying has subsided and I'm adjusting. I'm getting used to teaching. I still wish I was at home but I'm not planning on coming home anytime soon.
Today I had to teach 2 units in my MWF classes. Some classes I had time to complete the lesson but other classes there wasn't enough time.
So we were all hanging out around after school because we knew we were going out to eat. Then we found out that the Korean teachers had a meeting that was going to last an hour so we didn't end up going out until after 9pm. (my classes were over at 5:45 so I was just sitting around playing on the internet)
We went out to eat with the Korean staff. I was the only female besides the principal's wife. All the female teachers didn't join us. We ate out for New Year's Eve at a korean restaurant. Another restaurant where you have to take off your shoes and sit on the floor. ouch again! Our legs always hurt! The koreans act like it doesnt even bother them! I don't know the name of what we were eating but I know it was pork. another restaurant where you cook it on the table and everyone shares. I tried one piece of kimchi--oh my its hot!!They saw us struggling with the chopsticks and brought us forks. the guys didn't use theirs but I used mine! I bet they have a blast watching us struggle with chopsticks!I really should try to learn!
While we were in the restaurant there was a MMA match on tv. Everyone kept watching it. There was this huge guy on there. The shortest guy was 188 cm and this guy had to be about 2 feet taller. He towered over the other guy. The smallest guy actually won. At one point we wondered why they were taking a timeout. then we saw the replay--the short guy kicked the tall guy between the legs. Then later the short guy won by kicking the tall guy in the knee.
None of us actually had any official new year's plans. I just sat in my room. the guys went out drinking.
Wow Ive been in South Korea for 2 weeks. wow time really does fly. The crying has subsided and I'm adjusting. I'm getting used to teaching. I still wish I was at home but I'm not planning on coming home anytime soon.
Today I had to teach 2 units in my MWF classes. Some classes I had time to complete the lesson but other classes there wasn't enough time.
So we were all hanging out around after school because we knew we were going out to eat. Then we found out that the Korean teachers had a meeting that was going to last an hour so we didn't end up going out until after 9pm. (my classes were over at 5:45 so I was just sitting around playing on the internet)
We went out to eat with the Korean staff. I was the only female besides the principal's wife. All the female teachers didn't join us. We ate out for New Year's Eve at a korean restaurant. Another restaurant where you have to take off your shoes and sit on the floor. ouch again! Our legs always hurt! The koreans act like it doesnt even bother them! I don't know the name of what we were eating but I know it was pork. another restaurant where you cook it on the table and everyone shares. I tried one piece of kimchi--oh my its hot!!They saw us struggling with the chopsticks and brought us forks. the guys didn't use theirs but I used mine! I bet they have a blast watching us struggle with chopsticks!I really should try to learn!
While we were in the restaurant there was a MMA match on tv. Everyone kept watching it. There was this huge guy on there. The shortest guy was 188 cm and this guy had to be about 2 feet taller. He towered over the other guy. The smallest guy actually won. At one point we wondered why they were taking a timeout. then we saw the replay--the short guy kicked the tall guy between the legs. Then later the short guy won by kicking the tall guy in the knee.
None of us actually had any official new year's plans. I just sat in my room. the guys went out drinking.
Day 13--2 lessons in each class
Day 13--December 30--Tuesday
So today we had to teach 2 lessons in every class because they weren't in school last Thursday and they wont be in class this Thursday because of holidays. I didn't finish all the material in any of my classes. It was so rushed.
Lots of miscommunication around here. All along they told us that today was payday. We'd get paid the 30th of every month. We would get paid for the time that we had been here. Then they told us that we would get paid a month from when we started on the day that we thought we were getting paid. But they made a deal with us. We'd get 1/3 of our salary and it would be in our accounts tomorrow. good. 1/3 is better than nothing.
This morning I was suppose to teach a special class at 9:50 with 8 students. There were 9 students on the roll and 12 people showed up to class so i had to go back downstairs and get more books.The special class is actually easier to teach! I don't need to prep and there's enough material.
I think I'm going to have a problem with my 2nd class. They are rowdy. Today I had to keep telling them to be quiet and they didn't want to listen. They were begging to play a game. I wouldn't play a game bc I had to get through 2 lessons today. Then it was too hot and I don't know how to work the air conditioner because I cant read the remote so I let my students play with the remote to make it work. They laughed every time I said the word "Shadow" bc it sounds like "shut up" (I had to ask why they kept laughing). Today 2 of my students wanted to change their english name. a girl wants to be called "big bang" (its a popular music group) and a guy wants to be "Kara". ok.
Later in the day one of the Korean teachers told me that some students in my 2nd class were complaining because of the rowdy students. there were 4 boys who wouldn't be quiet. She told me if I have problems to let her know and she will call their parents. good. Im going to threaten them with detention. She said they don't act up in her class. why in mine??
For lunch I had a small pizza and a walnut pie from Paris Baguette. It was good.
After school we went to a korean restaurant. Andrew ordered for us. We had dook bae gi bulgogi. it was delicious. Then we realized that its what we had at the restaurant near the school. It only costed 4,000 won. I asked him how to pronounce it because I like it. We also went to Icebean to get ice cream. I got a small cup. I dont know what flavors I had but it was good. 2 flavors for 3,000 won.
Tonight I was so tired. I didn't plan my lessons. I went to bed early and I'll get up early to plan my lessons.
So today we had to teach 2 lessons in every class because they weren't in school last Thursday and they wont be in class this Thursday because of holidays. I didn't finish all the material in any of my classes. It was so rushed.
Lots of miscommunication around here. All along they told us that today was payday. We'd get paid the 30th of every month. We would get paid for the time that we had been here. Then they told us that we would get paid a month from when we started on the day that we thought we were getting paid. But they made a deal with us. We'd get 1/3 of our salary and it would be in our accounts tomorrow. good. 1/3 is better than nothing.
This morning I was suppose to teach a special class at 9:50 with 8 students. There were 9 students on the roll and 12 people showed up to class so i had to go back downstairs and get more books.The special class is actually easier to teach! I don't need to prep and there's enough material.
I think I'm going to have a problem with my 2nd class. They are rowdy. Today I had to keep telling them to be quiet and they didn't want to listen. They were begging to play a game. I wouldn't play a game bc I had to get through 2 lessons today. Then it was too hot and I don't know how to work the air conditioner because I cant read the remote so I let my students play with the remote to make it work. They laughed every time I said the word "Shadow" bc it sounds like "shut up" (I had to ask why they kept laughing). Today 2 of my students wanted to change their english name. a girl wants to be called "big bang" (its a popular music group) and a guy wants to be "Kara". ok.
Later in the day one of the Korean teachers told me that some students in my 2nd class were complaining because of the rowdy students. there were 4 boys who wouldn't be quiet. She told me if I have problems to let her know and she will call their parents. good. Im going to threaten them with detention. She said they don't act up in her class. why in mine??
For lunch I had a small pizza and a walnut pie from Paris Baguette. It was good.
After school we went to a korean restaurant. Andrew ordered for us. We had dook bae gi bulgogi. it was delicious. Then we realized that its what we had at the restaurant near the school. It only costed 4,000 won. I asked him how to pronounce it because I like it. We also went to Icebean to get ice cream. I got a small cup. I dont know what flavors I had but it was good. 2 flavors for 3,000 won.
Tonight I was so tired. I didn't plan my lessons. I went to bed early and I'll get up early to plan my lessons.
Day 12--Monday-December 29
Day 12--Monday--December 29th
I had to get up bright and early today. I had to be at school at 9 am. Me and James were the first ones there at 8:45am. The school was locked and no one was there. When they said 9am they meant 9am. Usually they get there early. The vice prin. came in a few mins later.
So I had no clue what I'd be teaching for my special conversation class at 9:50. I didn't do any prep. I just looked at the textbook. It seemed like it had enough material to last 70 mins. I just made the students read and repeat. It worked out well. We didn't even finish the workbook! Finally enough material! My list said I'd have 6 students. There were 8 students on the roll and nobody on the roll showed up. I had to add my 3 students to the roll. (I think it was a mix up between MW and Tues/Thurs class rolls)
Then I got a break from 11am till 12:30. Me, James and Andrew went to Bagel Street Cafe for lunch. I had a chicken breast sandwich on a bagel. Definatly a different experience. The ingredients were weird--chicken slices (like lunch meat), cream cheese, cucumbers, lettuce (not iceberg), and sprout (whatever that is). It had a unique taste. It was okay but not my favorite.
From 12:30-5:45 I was teaching elementary classes. I had one late student in my 1st class--2nd time he was late. 2 of my students were absent. All of my classes were good except the lesson was short today. In one class we went over the material twice.
After work me and Andrew went to Pizza School for supper. We go there a lot. I usually get pizza but I got spaghetti. it was good and a good price..4,000 won.
We don't have internet yet. They keep telling us that the vice principal is getting a wireless connection but nothing is happening. James told me that if you sit your computer up on the ledge you can connect to someone's unsecured wireless signal. So I tried it. I had a connection for 2 hours!
I bought a Korean dance mix cd today--2 disks for 7,800. good price for 42 songs.
I tried some cookies that resemble oreos. They don't even come close. I ate a few and threw the pack away. I cant find real oreos at home plus.
I have no clue what kind of milk im drinking. They have so many kinds. I just picked up one that said "Grade 1A". It tastes good so thats good. and I like the store brand of frosted flakes.
I had to get up bright and early today. I had to be at school at 9 am. Me and James were the first ones there at 8:45am. The school was locked and no one was there. When they said 9am they meant 9am. Usually they get there early. The vice prin. came in a few mins later.
So I had no clue what I'd be teaching for my special conversation class at 9:50. I didn't do any prep. I just looked at the textbook. It seemed like it had enough material to last 70 mins. I just made the students read and repeat. It worked out well. We didn't even finish the workbook! Finally enough material! My list said I'd have 6 students. There were 8 students on the roll and nobody on the roll showed up. I had to add my 3 students to the roll. (I think it was a mix up between MW and Tues/Thurs class rolls)
Then I got a break from 11am till 12:30. Me, James and Andrew went to Bagel Street Cafe for lunch. I had a chicken breast sandwich on a bagel. Definatly a different experience. The ingredients were weird--chicken slices (like lunch meat), cream cheese, cucumbers, lettuce (not iceberg), and sprout (whatever that is). It had a unique taste. It was okay but not my favorite.
From 12:30-5:45 I was teaching elementary classes. I had one late student in my 1st class--2nd time he was late. 2 of my students were absent. All of my classes were good except the lesson was short today. In one class we went over the material twice.
After work me and Andrew went to Pizza School for supper. We go there a lot. I usually get pizza but I got spaghetti. it was good and a good price..4,000 won.
We don't have internet yet. They keep telling us that the vice principal is getting a wireless connection but nothing is happening. James told me that if you sit your computer up on the ledge you can connect to someone's unsecured wireless signal. So I tried it. I had a connection for 2 hours!
I bought a Korean dance mix cd today--2 disks for 7,800. good price for 42 songs.
I tried some cookies that resemble oreos. They don't even come close. I ate a few and threw the pack away. I cant find real oreos at home plus.
I have no clue what kind of milk im drinking. They have so many kinds. I just picked up one that said "Grade 1A". It tastes good so thats good. and I like the store brand of frosted flakes.
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