Day Six

Day Six: Shin Hyon Middle School and Home Stay

Our middle school visit. The chart welcomed us in English, the principal greeted the bus at the entrance. It seemed like hundreds of students were playing soccer on the red clay field. We were introduced to the school by the principal (he spoke English very well) using a PowerPoint presentation. When we asked for copies of the very well worded school values, they were prepared - we each received the presentation on disk.
	We observed classes through windows. Some of us dared enter the classrooms - this was always fun and disruptive. Most classrooms had windows open into the hall.
Most classes had 60 students. The teacher often used a microphone to project his/her voice. It seems most lessons were teacher directed with possibly some pair work but no room for group work.
	Students seemed curious about us. They knew the standard introductory phrases in English- “good afternoon”...”how are you?”...”my name is”...They seemed to love hearing us speak English and laughed with glee when they actually understood us.
A male gym teacher demonstrates the steps to a modern line dance. After several tries...
	...members of our group get into the act.
The informal progress of our visit allowed many of us to get closer to the students and ask questions of individuals. This was for many of us the highlight of our visit to Korea.
	As we expected after seeing the technology in our hotel rooms, every school has a computer lab. This is the teachers office. Each teacher has their own desk and computer.
The English Zone - great concept. If you’re in the zone you can speak in English only. I plan to implement a French Zone in my school. Koreans know the importance of knowing English if students are to participate in a global economy. Note the lovely prints on the wall.
	Peace - the universal greeting!